Lotiform Cup, c.945–715 BC, 22nd Dynasty, Faience, H.14.6 cm

The fragrant blossom of the blue lotus is a common motif in all forms of Egyptian art. The water lily was valued not only for its beauty and scent; because it opened its petals to the sun each morning it became a symbol of creation and rebirth. This cup, made of brilliantly glazed Egyptian faience, imitates the slender form of the flower and is decorated in relief with scenes depicting the plant's marshy habitat. Such cups were funerary offerings made to be placed in tombs.

Very similar cups are also held by Eton College's Myer's Museum.