Lot 260. A Ming blue and white bottle vase, Jiajing period (1522-1566), 9¼ in. (23.5 cm.) high. Estimate GBP10,000-15,000. Price realised GBP 12,500. © Christie's Images Ltd 2011

Painted around the pear-shaped body with large lotus flowers with feathery petals borne on leafy meandering scrolls, all above a lappet band at the foot, the shoulder with a wide band enclosing a stylised leafy scrolls, the base with a four-character inscription reading 'yong bao chang chun'. 

Note: Yong bao chang chun may be translated as 'Eternal life and everlasting spring'. 

Christie's. Fine Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art, 10 May 2011, London