Lot 45. A very rare blue and white garlic-head vase, Kangxi six-character mark and of the period (1662-1722); 22.5cm (8 7/8in) high. Estimate £ 4,000-6,000. Sold for £ 5,687 (€ 6,299). Photo: Bonhams.

The compressed globular body surmounted by a tall waisted neck terminating with a garlic-head mouth, finely painted in soft inky-blue tones with gnarled branches of prunus on a cracked-ice ground, between diaper-pattern bands and chilong on the neck, and fish amidst swirling waves on the body, the lowest register with sand and shells, all supported on a tapered foot.

Provenance: an English private collection.