Title
Teacup
Year/Period
Late 19th-early 20th century
Region
Kuala Lumpur, British Malaya
Dimension
Gross measurement: H: 5.0,
x Dia: 8.4 cm
x Dia: 8.4 cm
Accession No.
2009-03030
Collection of
Credit Line
Gift of Sunny Chan Hean Kee
Teacups are among the most common items found in Nyonya wares made from overglaze polychrome porcelain. This piece has everted gilt-edged scalloped rims. The decorative motifs include butterflies of different colours and wing patterns as well as chrysanthemum blossoms. These flowers are symbolic of longevity, friendship and intellectual pursuits. The motifs are set against a rose pink background. The colour, in the Peranakan culture, symbolises happiness, longevity, youthfulness and innocence. Also, butterflies and flowers together signify marital bliss and fidelity.
