Chinese Han lacquer cup, a podcast by A History of the World in 100 Objects

A simple cup tells a story of power in the Han dynasty.
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Resource: podcast
Running Time: 14 minutes


Time: AD 4
Place: China

Summary:
The focus of this podcast narrated by Neil MacGregor is a small lacquer cup.  The cup was probably a gift or given instead of a salary. These cups were very hard to make and thus as a gift became a binding token of the relationship.  Neil and experts examine the cup and its political ramifications.  Expertly done, it is a delight to listen to this podcast.

Potentially Objectionable Content:
Poisoning of a 15 year old emperor is mentioned.


Website:
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