Lot 3579. A very rare mother-of-pearl inlaid ruyi-form box and cover, Qianlong four-character mark and of the period (1736-1795); 6.6 cm.) wide. Estimate HKD 350,000 - HKD 450,000. Price Realized HKD 920,000. © Christie's Images Ltd 2011. 

The slightly domed cover delicately inlaid with iridescent shells in different hues of blue and green with gold leaf highlights to depict a lady seated on a barrel stool beside a table supporting a flower vase and a large screen behind her, all against a brown lacquer ground, the sides with stylised geometric diaper, the interior left plain with the exception of a small flower sprig to the interior of the cover and a fish to the interior of the base, the base with the four character reign mark inlaid with mother-of-pearl and gilt within a square, wood stand.