Lot 87. A rare gilt-bronze blue and white 'squirrel' kendi, Wanli period (1573-1620), with later European mounts; 19.5cm (7 5/8in) high. Estimate £ 8,000 - 12,000€ (9,300 - 14,000). Sold for £ 40,062 (€ 45,736). © Bonhams 2001-2019

The top of the lobed bulbous body finely moulded with a large squirrel with bushy tail and detailed fur, painted around the exterior in vibrant tones of cobalt-blue with panels of flowers, grapes, a horse and a scroll, the shoulders with a key-fret pattern, the European mounts finely incised with a rose. 

Note Kendi in the form of an elephant or frog are quite common. However, kendi moulded with bulls, cows and squirrels are very rare. 

Compare with a similar blue and white kendi with a squirrel, Wanli, which was sold at Christie's Amsterdam, 7-8 May 2002, lot 78.

Bonhams. Fine Chinese Art, London, 16 May 2019