A Chinese libation cup cast with a chilong dragon as a handle and geometric motifs in relief. Chilong, a mystical animal symbolizing auspiciousness, has appeared on Chinese jade-ware from as early as the Han Dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE). This cup was made in the style of carved hard stones of the same period, such as rock crystal and jade, which were often carved in relief and depicted similar decorative motifs to the one presented here.

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.