Cup, 20th Century
Paiwan culture; Pingtung or Taitung County, Taiwan
Wood and pigments; 2 × 1…

Wine Cup

ClassificationsFurnishings-Serviceware-drinking vessels

Culture Paiwan

Date20th Century

Made AtTaiwan, Asia

MediumWood and pigments

Dimensions2 × 17 3/4 × 5 3/4 in. (5.1 × 45.1 × 14.6 cm)

Credit LineGift of Anne and Long Shung Shih

Object number2019.15.18

DescriptionPaiwanese cups were created for the ceremonial drinking of rice wine and other alcohol. The best-known type of cup made by the Paiwan is a double-bowled cup or linnak used by couples at their wedding ceremonies. While there is not a great deal written about single cups, they are believed to have been used by Paiwanese chiefs at ceremonial events. It has further been suggested that the double and triple cups evolved from the single cup to symbolically suggest unity between those who are drinking from them. The snake, seen here decorating both handles of the cup, was an important motif in Paiwan art as it was believed that the Paiwan were descended from the viper.

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