875 - Pair of exquisite teacups with the Yongzheng mark

Pair of exquisite teacups with the Yongzheng mark China, probably late Qing Dynasty (1644–1911), 19th century. Porcelain, glazed, decorated with iron red (Fanhong) and overglaze gold. Height: 3 cm each; rim diameter: 9 cm. Four-character Yongzheng mark in underglaze blue within a double frame. In very good condition. - Provenance: From a German private collection. Finely painted teacups of exceptional elegance. The walls are decorated with three playing lions (Shizi) and brocade balls, symbols of good fortune, strength, and prosperity. On the inside is a round medallion with a stylized vine motif. Particularly noteworthy is the exceptionally fine quality of the porcelain body. When held up to the light, the wall appears almost translucent, revealing the high technical mastery of the porcelain craftsmanship. The precise execution of the decoration in iron red and fine gold painting lends the cups a special refinement. Pieces with such thin walls were technically challenging to produce and attest to the high level of craftsmanship in the Jingdezhen workshops.