Lot 3261. A fine yellow jade carving of a bird, 17th century. Estimate 250,000 — 350,000 HKD. Lot sold 500,000 HKD. Photo: Sotheby's.

the archaistic bird finely carved with its head turned back resting between its wings, its web feet neatly tucked below its body and its feathery tail curling down to form a compact composition, its plumage picked out in various archaistic motifs including key-fret, leiwen and C-scrolls, the warm honey-coloured stone subtly enhanced with russet inclusions; 5.3 cm., 2 1/8 in.

Sotheby's. Fine Chinese Ceramics & Works of Art, Hong Kong, 04 Apr 2012