Lot 39. A rare blue and white two-handled 'Jesuit' jar, Wanli period (1573-1619); 9.8cm (3 7/8in) high. Estimate £4,000 - 6,000 (€5,600 - 8,400). Sold for £ 5,000 (€ 5,710). Photo Bonhams.

The globular body decorated with two medallions comprising four ruyi heads around a central flowerhead, flanked by further ruyi heads issuing from leafy tendrils, the short, waisted neck decorated with interlocking lozenges and ribbons, the c-shaped handles with scrolling clouds, the base with a stylised Jesuit cross within a double circle. 

Provenance: a distinguished European private collection

Note: The blue and white Christian cross painted on the base indicates that this rare vessel was made by special commission for the Society of Jesus.

Compare a related blue and white jar, circa 1650, with an IHS emblem, illustrated by N.de Castro in Chinese Porcelain and the Heraldry of the Empire, Oporto, 1988, p.37, where the author notes that it was probably made for the College of Goa.

Bonhams. FINE CHINESE ART, 12 Nov 2015 10:00 GMT - LONDON, NEW BOND STREET