A large blue and white 'Lotus' jar. Ming dynasty, 16th century. Photo: Sotheby's

the robustly potted ovoid body rising from a flat base to a short tapering neck, painted around the exterior in rich dark cobalt-blue tones with large lotus flower heads borne on leafy scrolling stems, all between a lotus-lappet band at the base and a pendent jewelled collar encircling the neck; 35.5cm., 14in. Estimate 7,000—9,000 GBP. Lot Sold 13,750 GBP

Sotheby's. Fine Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art, 10 Nov 10, London www.sothebys.com