Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
A delicate pair of Chinese porcelain wine or tea cups, exquisitely hand-painted in the Famille Rose palette with a vibrant 'hundred butterflies' (百蝶图) design. Each cup features an iron-red six-character Guangxu reign mark on the base, surrounded by a double ring, indicating they were produced during his imperial reign.
Story
In late 19th-century China, the butterfly motif was a visual pun for longevity and blessings. These cups were created during the twilight of the Qing Dynasty, a period of intense cultural revival despite political turmoil.
Maker / Origin
These cups were produced at the legendary imperial kilns of Jingdezhen, which supplied the court of the Guangxu Emperor. Under the de facto rule of Empress Dowager Cixi, the kilns experienced a dramatic renaissance, producing highly refined porcelains that looked back to the golden ages of the 18th century.
Condition & Value
The cups show minor wear to the gilt rims and some tiny dark firing specks consistent with late Qing production. There appears to be very minor roughness or tiny fleabites along the upper rims, but no major cracks or chips are immediately visible. Excellent preservation of the enamel colors.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.