This meticulously crafted 3D-printed replica of the Raft Cup, originally created by Chinese silversmith Zhu Bishan in 1345 during the Yuan dynasty, captures the elegance and mythological significance of the renowned silver vessel housed in the Cleveland Museum of Art. Designed as a hollow log with intricate chased decoration depicting Zhang Qian holding an inscribed “loom stone,” this replica embodies the cultural and artistic sophistication of 14th-century China. Ideal for collectors, historians, or enthusiasts of Chinese art, the replica offers a tangible connection to the elite culture and craftsmanship of the Yuan dynasty.
Product Specifications
- Dimensions: 16 cm (6 5/16 inches) in height, scaled to match the original where feasible.
- Design Features: Hammered log-like form with chased and embossed designs, including Zhang Qian and the loom stone, reflecting the Qixi Festival mythology. Inscriptions, date (1345), and Zhu Bishan’s seal are faithfully reproduced.
- Material Options:
- Black Nylon: Finished with Color Touch treatment for enhanced durability, scratch resistance, and consistent color across batches. The surface offers a uniform, high-quality matte black appearance suitable for display in varied conditions.
- White Nylon: Polished for a smooth tactile finish, providing a cost-effective option with a clean, minimalist aesthetic.
- Bronze: Cast using a wax master model and plaster mold, delivering a robust, elegant metallic finish with a warm, classic tone.
- Brass: Cast similarly to bronze, offering a refined, golden-hued surface with a sophisticated sheen.
- Gold-Plated Brass: Brass base with gold plating for a luxurious, radiant finish, evoking the opulence of the original silver vessel.
- White Rhodium-Plated Brass: Brass base with white rhodium plating, offering a sleek, silver-like appearance with a contemporary edge.
- Production Method:
- Nylon options utilize advanced 3D printing with post-processing for durability and finish quality.
- Metal options employ 3D-printed wax master models, followed by plaster molding and liquid metal casting to ensure precision and elegance.
- Cultural Significance: The replica reflects the Yuan dynasty’s cosmopolitanism, blending Chinese aesthetics with potential Central Asian influences. The depiction of Zhang Qian ties it to Chinese cosmology and the Qixi Festival, making it a storytelling piece for scholarly or decorative settings.
Note
Objects exceeding the size limitations of the production processes for the selected materials are crafted at a reduced scale compared to the original Raft Cup to ensure compatibility with 3D printing and casting techniques.


















