Lot 1081. A small carved tixi lacquer cup, Early Ming dynasty, 15th century; 2¾ in. (6.1 cm). Estimate USD 8,000 - USD 12,000. Price realised USD 9,375. © Christie's Images Ltd 2014 

The cup is crisply carved on the exterior with a band of four ruyi heads, exposing the intricate red and black layers of the lacquer. The base has a three-petal whorl design. The interior is covered in black lacquer, Japanese wood box.

Christie's. Fine Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art, New York, 18 - 19 September 2014