A fine and rare pair of  imperial iron-decorated wine cups. Iron-red Qianlong seal marks and of the period. photo Nagel Auctions

The steep sides each enamelled in deep iron-red with two striding dragons, one looking backwards, separated by clouds above detached waves of paler tone, the rims gilt

Compare a similar pair of wine cups, sold Christie's Hongkong, 30.4.1995, Lot 653

It is very rare to find cups of this pattern with Qianlong marks. Compare with a pair of Yongzheng-marked cups of this pattern from the H. M. Knight Collection included in the Oosterse Schatten Exhibition, Amsterdam, 1954, Catalogue no. 382

Tiny burst glaze buble on the mouth rim of one cup, fine condition. D. 6 cm. Estimate 30 000 / 40 000 €

Nagel Auctions. Asian Art. November 3rd 2011. www.auction.de