A large pair of Chinese Export cranes. Qianlong period. Photo: Christie's Images Ltd., 2012

Each long-necked bird modeled with its head cocked slightly to the side, his feathers picked out in black and bianco-sopra-bianco, its green feet perched on a brown pierced rockwork base 20¼ in. (51.4 cm.) high, the slightly larger (2). Estimate $30,000 - $50,000

Property from a direct descendant of George D. Widener, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Notes: Symbolizing longevity, the crane is an auspicious animal in China. They are also thought to be messengers of wisdom. Compare the smaller example from the collection of the Duke of Westminister, formerly at Eaton Hall (1931) and Eaton Lodge (1957) and later sold Christie's, London, 15 May 2007, lot 410. Also see the smaller pairs in the Estate of Mrs. Charles W. Engelhard, Christie's, New York, 18 March 2005, lot 256; and in the Hodroff Collection sold Christie's, New York, 21 January 2009, lot 257.

Christie's. Chinese Export Art. 23 January 2012. New York, Rockefeller Plaza www.christies.com