Beker
In 1918, Chinese general Zhang Xun (1854-1923) presented this cup as a gift to the Dutch diplomatic envoy stationed in Peking. He had sought refuge there in 1917, after a failed attempt to reinstate the empire through military means. On one side of the cup is an engraved inscription expressing his gratitude for the Netherland’s help, and on the other side is a Chinese scene. While the decoration reflects Chinese tradition, the cup’s shape adheres to a Western aesthetic.