A Chinese blue and white Gu vase. Kangxi period (1662-1722). Photo: Christie's Images Ltd., 2010

Painted to the lower body with cranes wading within a watery landscape surrounded by oversized lotus blossoms, the bulbous mid-section with scattered flowering branches, the upper body and flaring neck with birds amongst blossoming peony branches issuing from rockwork - 17 5/8 in. (44.7 cm.) high - Estimate £5,000 - £8,000 ($7,985 - $12,776

Literature: Inventory and Valuation of the contents of Newton Hall, Felton, Morpeth, Northumberland, The Property of Brigadier General B. F. Widdrington, C.M.G., D.S.O., 1925, p. 169.

Christie's. The Country House Sale - Newton Hall. 20 January 2010. London, South Kensington www.christies.com