Lot 3380. A fine famille verte 'rose blossom' cup, Kangxi six-character mark within double circles and of the period (1662-1722); 2 7/16 in. (6.5 cm.) diam. Estimate HKD 1,200,000 - HKD 1,800,000. Price Realized HKD 1,480,000. © Christie's Images Ltd 2013

The cup is delicately potted with flaring sides, with the exterior painted and enamelled representing the eleventh month with roses growing beside low rockwork with three insects in flight. The reverse has an inscription which may be translated to 'Unlike the myriad blossoms that flower and wither; the rose alone is perennially red', followed by a seal mark reading Shang, 'Appreciation', Japanese wood box.

Literature: H.D. Ling and E.T. Chow, Collections of Chinese Ceramics from the Hall of Leisurely Pastime, Hong Kong, 1950.