Lovely small porcelain cup with a crackled glaze. The crackling was formed by a special process during manufacture. Chinese porcelain is made from a fine clay called ‘kaolin’ which is fired at temperatures of around 1.450 degrees Celsius. Once removed from the kiln the glazed object can be reheated and when cooled off quickly for instance by dipping it in cold water, fine cracks form which will be filled afterwards with ink to make them more visible. This small tea cup dates most probably from the Republic period (1912 – 1947). It is in mint condition and according to the dealer who sold it to us about thirty years ago, it came from an old collection of calligraphy items and other porcelains. Diameter rim 5.3 cm. Diameter at the base 2.7 cm. Height 2.5 cm.