A purple-splashed Junyao bowl, Song Dynasty (960-1279). Photo Christie's Image Ltd 2014

The conical bowl is covered allover with a crackled bluish glaze that falls short of the base to reveal a dark grey body. The well of the interior is highlighted with a vivid purple splash. 7? in. (19.2 cm) diam. Estimate £800 – £1,200 ($1,354 - $2,030)

Provenance: Purchased in France, 17 June 1977.

Christie's. CHINESE CERAMICS, WORKS OF ART AND TEXTILES, 14 May 2014, London, South Kensington - http://www.christies.com/