A very rare form and in superb condition, this marvelous Chinese export porcelain ‘Ling-Long’ cup and saucer is of double wall construction, the outer surface meticulously hand-cut in a honey-comb pattern revealing painted decoration to the interior wall as well as open work chrysanthemum roundels, all vibrantly painted in Famille Rose enamels with peony decoration and pink and blue cellwork borders. The term ‘Ling-Long’ means “Devil’s Work’ which aptly describes the painstaking patience required to form, cut, and decorate these objects – not to mention the finished pieces surviving the firing process.  In amazing fine condition, the cup measuring    3 1/4″ tall, the saucer 5 1/4” in diameter. Qianlong period, mid-18th century.