A pair of aubergine elephants. First quarter 19th century. Photo: Christie's Images Ltd., 2010

The beasts standing foursquare, their wrinkly hides a glossy deep purple and their ears, tusks and toes glazed a creamy white; 10 in. (25.4 cm.) long (2) - Estimate $12,000 - $18,000

Christie's.  Chinese Export Art , 25 January 2011, New York, Rockefeller Plaza www.christies.com