A fine and large Transitional blue and white sleeve vase - Circa 1640

Of slender baluster form, finely painted in vibrant blue tones with a continuous scene depicting an official, his bannerman and military attendants greeting a messenger with gifts surrounded by rockwork and plantain trees, between incised lines at the base and shoulder, the flaring neck with stiff pendent plantain leaves. 44cm (17½in) high. Estimate: HK$500,000 - 700,000, $65,000 - 90,000 - Non adjugé.

Provenance: a Dutch private collection, sold at auction in Amsterdam

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Bonhams.Fine Chinese Ceramics, Works of Art and Paintings, 26 Nov 2007. JW Marriott Hotel, Admiralty, Hong Kong