This cup features an engraving of a four-claw dragon interspersed with scrolling floral or cloud motifs on a ring-matt background. Two patterns are present on the bottom and top of the vessel. Circling the rim is a key fret pattern, a popular motif in early Shang art, while a concentric wave pattern borders the foot. Classic Tibetan tea cups were often made from burlwood, sometimes lined or mounted with silver repoussé. They would have been used to serve and drink butter tea, a popular beverage among migratory Tibetans. Silver examples are rare and it is likely that this was a Chinese export piece produced in a similar style in the 18th or 19th century.
