China, 1644-1912. Delicately carved and faceted with thin walls supported on a flat base and rising to a lipped rim. The transparent stone with natural markings resembling dark green moss.

Provenance: Spanish trade. By repute acquired from an old estate in northwestern Spain.
Condition: Good condition with minor wear, a single hairline to one side with a minuscule chip to the rim.

Weight: 21.5 g
Dimensions: Diameter 5.5 cm

This cup would have been made primarily as an ornament rather than for use. Although agate is a tough and durable material, it is prone to crack when subjected to sudden and significant changes in temperature. Also, when worked to give fine edges or thicknesses, it is easily chipped or cracked when knocked. With this in mind, finely worked agate vessels that survive completely undamaged are uncommon.