Cup, Ming dynasty, Chenghua mark and period (1465–1487)
China
Porcelain painted in underglaze blue and overglaze enamels

D. 3 1/4 in. (8.3 cm)

I selected this work of art because I found it absolutely beautiful.  Being of Asian descent, I am very partial to Asian art, especially household items that remind me of warm family gatherings.  This piece reminds me of warm Korean Plum Tea or a family blend of Oolong, cozy and comforting on a cool day.  I love the tiny details in this piece and feel the exquisite handpainted detail is a treasure to behold.

This piece dates back to the emperor of the Ming Dynasty, who favored an artist named Wan Gufei.  He was responsible for the technique employed in this piece known as Chenghua doucai (“contrasting colors” or “contending colors”), which is a combination of two ornamental processes.  In doucai painting, designs were completely outlined in cobalt blue on the unfired vessel, and a few areas of blue wash were painted in as well. After glazing, and the usual high-temperature firing, the outlines were filled in with overglaze red, green, yellow, and aubergine enamels that were fired at low temperatures. Doucai-style enameling was usually saved for intimate objects of exquisite refinement, and the rare examples of Chenghua are some of the most highly treasured of all Ming-dynasty porcelains.

http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/ho/08/eac/ho_1987.85.htm