Teacups are among the most common items found in Nyonya wares made from overglaze polychrome porcelain. This piece carries the reign mark “Xuantong nian zhi” with zero at the centre, suggesting that it could have been manufactured during the reign of Emperor Puyi who ruled from 1908 to 1911. It has everted gilt-edged scalloped rims. The decorative motifs include large red peony blossoms set against a bright yellow background. This colour is considered an auspicious colour by the Peranakan Chinese and is associated with festive occasions such as Chinese New Year. The teacup rim is decorated with symbols from the Eight auspicious Buddhist emblems such as the Lotus flower. These are set against a rose pink background. The colour symbolises happiness and longevity, youthfulness and innocence.
