A Wucai baluster jar and cover. Transitional period, circa 1650. photo Christie's Ltd 2010 

Painted around the body with a scene of a maiden kneeling in tribute before male and female officials, their attendants to one side in front of a large screen and altar table, while a group of maidens play musical instruments on a terrace, all beneath a border of 'cracked-ice' pattern on the shoulder and rocks and flowers on the tapered neck, the cover painted with a scene of three boys playing in a rocky landscape; 15 1/8 in. (38.4 cm.) high - Estimate $18,000 - $25,000

Provenance: Chait Galleries, New York.

Christie's Fine Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art, 16 - 17 September 2010, New York www.christies.com