Lot 8064. A blue and white bird-headed ewer, Kangxi period (1662-1722); 9 1/4in (23.5cm) high. Estimate US$ 4,000 - 6,000 (€ 3,300 - 4,900). © Bonhams 2001-2018

Of quatrefoil bottle form, raised on a foot with scalloped edges with a two-tiered neck terminating in a flaring mouth with a single notch, set to one side with a long curved spout formed in the shape of an open-mouthed phoenix, finely painted around the body with birds and insects among flowering prunus, peony and chrysanthemum, with various floral sprays repeated at the neck and finial. 

Note: A Kangxi famille verte pair of ewers of the same form is illustrated by C.J.A. Jörg, Chinese Ceramics in the Collection of the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam, London, 1997, Catalogue no.177, where it is noted that ewers of this type enjoyed popularity in Europe as exotic and decorative items. 

A single ewer and cover from the Hodroff collection was sold at Christie's, New York, 23 January 2008, lot 241.

Bonhams. CHINESE WORKS OF ART AND PAINTINGS, 19 Mar 2018, 12:00 EDT, NEW YORK