Cup (from a set of eight)

Art Historical Context

This delicate porcelain cup, part of an elegant set of eight, hails from China's Qing dynasty (16441911), specifically the late 18th to first half of the 19 century. Standing just 1 3/4 inches tall and 3 1/2 inches wide, it the exquisite miniaturization prized in Qing ceramics, perfect for intimate tea gatherings or ceremonial use. Crafted with an iron-red glaze and adorned in overglaze polychrome enamels the cup features vibrant floral motifs—likely symbols of prosperity, renewal, and natural harmony in Chinese culture. The overglaze enameling technique was a hallmark of Qing porcelain innovation, allowing artists to apply vivid colors like reds, blues, and golds after the initial high-fired glaze, then refire at lower temperatures for a glossy finish. This method produced durable yet intricately painted wares, often exported worldwide, blending imperial refinement with everyday luxury. Acquired by subscription in 1879 for the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Asian Art collection, this cup offers a glimpse into the dynasty's porcelain mastery, when such sets graced elite tables amid China's flourishing trade era.