A Cizhou black-glazed carved jar, guan - 12th/13th century

Of baluster form rising to the high slanted shoulders surmounted by a short tapering neck with a lipped rim, applied with a pair of double-loop handles, the body carved with a lotus blossom flanked by incised foliate scrolls, framed by two double bow-strings below further foliate scrolls at the shoulders, reserved on a thick dark chocolate-brown glaze stopping short of the rim and foot ring. 31.7cm (12½in) high. Estimate: £1,200 - 1,800

Bonhams. Asian Art including Fine Bronzes, 26 Feb 2008. New Bond Street