A doucai stem bowl. Qing dynasty, Daoguang period

the rounded sides rising to a straight rim from a domed foot, painted with a central stylized band of lotus, between a band of ruyi at the rim and lappets above the foot, with a further band of lotus on the foot, marked to the interior of the foot 'Hao Ran Tang'. 13.8cm., 5 3/8 in. Est. 4,000—6,000 GBP

PROVENANCE: Private Collection, Hong Kong.

Sotheby's. Fine Chinese Ceramics & Works of Art. 13 May 09. London www.sothebys.com photo courtesy Sotheby's.