Lot 144. A white jade 'dragon and phoenix' plaque, Ming Dynasty (1368-1644);  9.6cm (3 7/8in) long. Estimate £3,000 - 5,000. Sold for £ 75,062 (€ 85,692). © Bonhams 2001-2019

The jade plaque finely carved in high relief with a sinuous writhing dragon amongst billowing ruyi-clouds and two flying phoenixes with finely incised feathers, the white jade inset on the zitan cover of the inkstone raised on a zitan stand. 

Provenance: according to family history, which is supported by family records illustrating the progress of British troops in Beijing at the time, this object was acquired by a military attaché posted to Beijing at the time of the Boxer Rebellion in 1900. He was attached to the staff of Brigadier-General A.Gaselee, the commander of the British contingent.

Bonhams. Fine Chinese Art, London, 16 May 2019