A carved coral branch. 20th century. Photo: Bonhams

Its multiple arms worked as a vase filled with flowering prunus surrounded by an admiring cat, flowering chrysanthemums and roses while a bird rests on a nearby garden rock (chipped, repaired); now attached to a wood display stand. 9 3/4in (24.5cm) height of coral; 11in (28cm) height including stand. Estimate: US$1,000 - 1,500