Lot 3737. An intricately carved ivory brushpot, Qing dynasty, Qianlong period (1736-1795); 7.9 cm., 3 1/8  in. Estimate 100,000 — 150,000 HKD. Lot sold 125,000 HKD. © Sotheby's

supported on a countersunk base, the cylindrical body rising to a flared rim, the exterior deftly carved with a continuous scene depicting seven sages engaging in various leisurely pursuits in a mountainous landscape set with a short staircase leading to a pavilion behind large craggy rockwork, two elderly sages depicted conversing with one another, one holding a brush near further rockwork with an attendant behind him, another three sages gathering, the tranquil setting arboured with large bamboo shoots and wutong trees and depicted with ruyi-shaped cloud swirls. 

Sotheby's. Important Chinese Works of Art, Hong Kong, 07 april 2015