The cup is decorated to the exterior with peony blossoms growing beside a rocky bed and a small insect flying amongst them. The reverse bears an inscription in underglaze blue, followed by the seal mark shang, meaning appreciation. The base with an apocryphal Kangxi mark. 2 1/8 in. (5.4 cm.) high. There is a tiny bruise to the inner foot rim. Otherwise, this is in overall fairly good condition. Estimation: USD 1,000 - 1,500. Price Realised $3500

Provenance: Acquired in Jersey, UK, in the 1980's. 

Note: The peony decoration represents the fourth month of the Chinese lunar year. 
The inscription reads 'Xiao yan yuan fen jin zhang lu, chun feng shen re yu tang feng' , and can be translated as 'The radiant peony is worthy of the Immortals' dew; its fragrance is carried far on the spring breeze from the palatial halls'

Christie's on line. The Art of China.