This superb Chinese libation cast glass cup has been finely. manufactured in the shape of a hollow vessel held between the wings of a dragon. Chilong, a mystical animal symbolizing auspiciousness, has appeared on Chinese jade-ware from as early as the Han Dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE). The figure of a phoenix in high relief can also be admired on the back of the cup. The vessel is decorated with waves motifs in relief and the rim of the cup is encircled by a low relief pattern of rectangular spirals. Comparable types to the one presented here were made also in other materials during the Ming/ Qing Dynasty, notably jade. Therefore, this rare work of art marries expert Chinese glassmakers with hard-stone workers.

In the Qing dynasty (1644-1912) glassmaking witnessed a big revival, probably a result of the imperial support, as many ateliers which were working specifically for the palace were established. The creation of these imperial workshops and their openness towards the introduction of western techniques, lead to the flourishing of Chinese glassmaking. Qing glass production was marked by enthusiastic support from the emperor, princes, and high officials and glass objects like the ones presented here were luxury articles. In the Kangxi period (1661-1722, the third emperor of the Qing dynasty) glass imitation of gems reached its peak, with clear glass used in place of rock crystal. Rock crystal was a material treasured by the Chinese people in the same way as they treasured jade and was a symbol of purity.