This special cup, known as the “Confucius Cup,” carries an intriguing story about moderation and wisdom. With its unique design, this cup only allows water to a specific level, becoming a symbol of the spirit of self-control.
At first glance, the cup appears quite simple, resembling ordinary cups used for tea or wine. The uniqueness lies solely in its upper part, featuring an image of a sage rising up from the center of the cup. When water is poured in, it will flow out of the cup on its own, creating an interesting phenomenon.
This artifact is currently displayed at Tan Ky Old House (101 Nguyen Thai Hoc, Hoi An City, Quang Nam Province). Previously, the famous archaeologist Vuong Hong Sy also owned a similar cup, but after he donated it to the Vietnam History Museum in Ho Chi Minh City, it mysteriously disappeared.
“Confucius Cup”: Mysteries and History at Tan Ky Museum
Tan Ky Old House has become a popular tourist destination in Hoi An, not only for its well-preserved classical architecture over the past 200 years but also for the diverse and rich collection of bowls, plates, ancient vases, beds, and more exhibited and introduced by the Le family.
If one is not attentive, it is difficult to recognize that the “Confucius Cup” is a precious asset of this family. Its shape is not particularly striking, and its age is not much older than other antiques. However, according to Tan Xuan, the sixth daughter-in-law of the family, after learning about the history and features of the small cup, everyone wants to see the wonder and mystery behind this precious item.
Tan Ky Old House
The cup is small, fitting comfortably in the palm of one’s hand, made of earthenware, with white glaze and simple patterns. In the center of the cup, there is a figure of a person standing slightly higher than the exterior. The bottom of the cup has a small hole, about the size of a matchstick. When water is poured into the cup to two parts of it, the water does not overflow, but if slightly more is poured, the water will “spill” right out.
Many people wonder why, when pouring “eight parts” of water into it, the water does not spill out, but just a little more causes the water to completely pour out rather than just fill the cup further. According to the family’s records, their precious cup was acquired from Chinese merchants who came to trade. It is an item related to the famous philosopher Confucius.
The bottomless Confucius Cup
According to legend, Confucius once passed through a desert, hungry and thirsty, and met an old man who led him to a cool pond and offered him a cup. Confucius scooped water to drink, but each time he filled it, the water in the cup completely disappeared. Eventually, Confucius discovered that the bottom of the cup had a small hole, and when the water in the cup was too full, it would spill out through this hole.
After many attempts to seal the hole without success, Confucius realized that to keep the water in the cup, he could not fill it to the brim. This incident led Confucius to propose the philosophy of the Doctrine of the Mean, about maintaining a balanced mindset. Living according to humanity, righteousness, propriety, wisdom, and trust to become a gentleman.
The cup saved Confucius from hunger and thirst, becoming a symbol of him, later referred to as the “Confucius Cup,” turning into a legend.
A Part of Vietnam’s Cultural Heritage
Curious tourists about the “Confucius Cup” often get drawn into its wonders. This cup is not just a passive antique; it also contains a profound story about philosophy and ethics. Visitors are often curious about how this cup embodies the principle of moderation.
The cup is usually carefully preserved to protect its cultural and historical value. It is often placed in a special position in museums or ancient houses, to keep it away from the effects of weather and strong sunlight. Additionally, it is also kept out of the public’s reach to avoid the risk of damage or loss.
The cup is often placed in a special position in museums or ancient houses.
Researchers and conservators often implement special preservation measures to ensure that this cup is preserved in the best possible condition. This may include regular inspections and cleaning, using stable environmental conditions, and monitoring changes in the structure and color of the cup.
Over time, this careful preservation allows visitors and researchers to continue exploring the wonders and philosophies behind the “Confucius Cup,” which is an important part of Vietnam’s cultural heritage.
