Kangxi Blue and White Antique Chinese Cups

Two Chinese blue and white cups, Kangxi period (1661-1722), each decorated with precious antiques and vases, one slightly larger than the other, the larger cup 7.5 cm high, 7 cm diameter. Provenance: A private collection of Kangxi porcelain, Regional Victoria, the core of this collection was formed in the 17th century in Holland by a family involved in the maritime East India trade, and has since been passed down through successive generations up to the current owners. The collection predominantly comprises sets of tea bowls and dishes for the Dutch market, many of which were intended to display as status symbols within a richly furnished house, rather than for daily use, and were a critical element in the spice trade.