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I've been trying to catch up on research of odds and ends in my collection, some of which pieces have been languishing on shelves for almost two decades. This three-piece cup set is one of them.

I'm unsure but believe the piece with the auspicious blessing "五子登科" (Wu zi deng ke), "May your five sons succeed in the Imperial Examinations" is supposed to be the lid to the cup. The saucer, where the presumed lid usually sits upside down, also accommodates the cup (upside down too) when not in use.

Considering all of the auspicious symbols that festoon the piece, I sort of believe it may be a dice cup, or something for use with the Yijing. But I'm way behind the curve on such metaphysical matters. The rotund figure with a feathered cloak appears to be a Luohan or other Immortal named Fuxi, something I only know because I came across a Christie's auction result for a Wang Qi vase with this deity painted on its side. But this is about all I know about this cup.

I'll try to add some more pictures over the weekend. All comments welcome.

Best regards,

Bill H.

Here are some additional pictures, including the legendary deity Fuxi on the base and other auspicious symbols ringing the sides of the cup. There also are images of the "Three Friends of Winter" motif of Pine, Prunus & Bamboo on the outer rim of the stand for the cup. A detail from the previously mentioned Wang Qi vase featuring Fuxi also has been added. There's a good share of matrimonial symbolism to be found, suggesting the item might have made good giftware on the occasion of weddings.

Best regards,

Bill H.

Just adding some measurements.

Bill H

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