An iron-red and gilt-decorated cup, Kangxi period (1662-1722). Estimate $4,000 – $6,000. Photo Christie's Image Ltd 2015

The deep cup is decorated on one side with a carp leaping from tumultuous waves scattered with prunus blossoms beneath a constellation and the moon. The reverse is inscribed with a couplet describing the scene, and two seals which read qing yi (pure pleasure), and mushi ju (the residence of wood and stone). 4 ½ in. (10.8 cm.) high

Provenance: Christie's Amsterdam, 8 May 2001, lot 404. 
The James E. Sowell Collection, Dallas, Texas. 

Christie's. MANDARIN & MENAGERIE: THE SOWELL COLLECTION, PART II, 16 September 2015, New York, Rockefeller Plaza