Mongolian Silver Bowls

During the course of the 17th and 20th centuries, most regions inhabited by ethnic Mongols, notably outer and inner Mongolia became part of the Qing Empire (The Machu). Since that time, Mongolians had begun to use the silver bowl in their daily lives. When a group of Mongolians was invited to a dinner with Manchu Emperors, men preferred to carry their silver-lined bowl with them for a very practical reason. It is said that when a poisoned liquid is poured into a silver vessel, the silver changes color and the owner knows not to drink the liquid offered.