A jade ruyi hairpin. Qing dynasty, 18th century

the long gently curved shaft terminating in a ruyi head centred with a shou character, the stone of very pale celadon-white tone. 13.5cm., 5 1/4 in. Est. 2,000—3,000 GBP. Lot Sold 2,500 GBP

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