Rust-Red and Gold Nanking Cargo Mug

This rare Chinese porcelain bowl, decorated with a rust-red and gilt floral motif, formed part of the famed Nanking Cargo. It was recovered in 1985 from the Dutch East India Company ship Geldermalsen, which sank in 1752 while returning from the Orient. The vast assemblage of porcelain salvaged from the wreck became known collectively as the Nanking Cargo and was dispersed the following year at a landmark four-day auction held by Christie’s Amsterdam, where this example appeared as lot 1216. Such vessels—often identified as spuigpotjes—were small Dutch table wares associated with dining and spitting practices of the 17th through 19th centuries, reflecting the intersection of Asian export porcelain with European domestic customs. Circa 1752 6 1/4" wide x 4 3/4" deep x 3 1/4" high