Jade Mughal Opium Cup

This small cup is made of white jade carved in the shape of an opium poppy. With its body formed of petals that emerge from a spray at the base, and a handle fashioned in the form of a serrated leaf, this cup’s jewelled decorations further reinforce its shape. Both the exterior and interior are decorated with thinly sliced emeralds and rubies set in the pavé (pavement in French) technique – whereby stones are pressured together – and outlined in fine gold wire. The handle’s surface is covered with emeralds, while the interior has a single poppy spray formed of ruby petals and a carved emerald in its centre. This brilliant little cup was most certainly made in the imperial ateliers for use by the emperor or someone within his immediate circle. It was probably used to serve kawa, a potent blend of wine, spices and opium, a habit associated with Mughal palace life.