Lot 608. A large blue and white Transitional vase, 17th Century, Chongzhen (1635-44). Height: 38 cm. Estimate 5 774 € / 7 699 €. Lot sold 11 655 €. © Bukowskis

The globular body of this vase tapers to a narrow foot and has a tall waisted and flared neck – painted with Buddhist emblems and stylised tulips of Dutch inspiration. The scene is of a barefooted youth who tends to a water buffalo, whilst being confronted by a nobleman – to his left are four court attendants, carrying a series of banners and capped lancers. The ground is decorated in the “High Transitional” style with grass being suggested by areas of v-shaped brush strokes. Clouds - below a shoulder frieze of chrysanthemums - bisect the overall landscape. The short partially smoothed knife cut foot rim is encircled by a series of lappets.