A coral figure of Kannon as 'Compassionate Mother'

Inspired by a famous painting by the late 19th century master Kano Hogai with Kannon holding lotus plants while a baby floats in a bubble above her feet surrounded by further lotus plants. 8in (20.5cm) high. Estimate: $4,000 - 6,000

A carved coral immortal and boys. 20th Century

The long bearded immortal with an exaggerated head, holding a dragon staff and a silver coin, surrounded by cranes, pine tree and young boys; attached to a carved wood stand. 4 1/4in (10.8cm) high excluding stand. Estimate: $500 - 700

A  coral carving of the Qiao Sisters. 20th Century

One shown standing with an instrument in her hands, the other sitting with her body leaning to one side, both in front of reticulated and pierced blooming plum branches. 8 3/4in (22.2cm) high. Estimate: $1,500 - 2,500

Two small figural coral carvings. 20th Century

The first depicting Guanyin seated to the front of the young boy Shancai; the second of Shoulao seated in a chariot. 5 and 6 1/2in (12.5 and 16.3cm) long. Estimate: $800 - 1,200

A large carved white coral figure of Guanyin. 19th Century

The standing figure holding a fly whisk while one phoenix perches upon a flowering peach branch to her right and another sits upon her right shoulder scarf. 10 3/4in (27.5cm) high. Estimate: $700 - 900

A carved coral snuff botlle. Late 19th/Early 20th Century

Carved as a beauty in a robe with wide open sleeves, holding a long-tailed monkey to her front, her head forming the stopper, some details rendered in carefully incised lines. 7cm high. Estimate: $600 - 800

Provenance: formerly in the collection of Harriet Hamilton, a decendent of Claus Spreckels

Published & Illustrated: Hamilton, Harriet Halbrook, Oriental Snuff Bottles, Palo Alto, Mayfield Pub., 1977, p. 8, no. O-36

Bonhams. Asian Decorative Arts, 28 Jul 2009. 220 San Bruno Avenue, San Francisco www.bonhams.com