A rare finely carved large hardwood brush pot, Bitong, 18th-19th century. Photo Christie's Image Ltd 2014

Possibly huanghuali, the sides are finely and deeply carved with scenes of scholars and attendants at various pursuits in a setting of terraces and a pavilion nestled amidst bamboo, trees, and rocks. One scene depicts scholars gathered around a table set with dishes and attended by a young boy. To their left a scholar watches as another scholar paints on a rock face while an attendant holds an inkstone. Two scholars seated beneath pine trees play a musical instrument and another scene shows an intimate gathering of scholars practicing calligraphy. Two young attendants assist an elderly scholar toward a foot bridge. The various scenes are set below a cloud-enshrouded rim. 10 3/8 in. (26.4 cm.) diam. Estimate $10,000 – $15,000

Provenance: Hon. Theodore Francis Green (1867-1966) Collection, Rhode Island.

Christie's. FINE CHINESE CERAMICS AND WORKS OF ART. 20 - 21 March 2014, New York, Rockefeller Plaza - www.christies.com