A creamy-white and black jade sword slide Song Dynasty (960-1279) or later. Photo Christie's Image Ltd, 2011

Of rounded rectangular shape with an oval aperture to the centre, carved in high relief with a long-tailed chilong pursuing the flaming pearl, the stone of a creamy tone with natural dark brown and black inclusions; 3¼ in. (8.3 cm.) long. Estimate £2,000 - £3,000. Price Realized £13,750

Christie's. Fine Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art, 8 November 2011; London, King Street www.christies.com