A large blue and white jar. Wanli © 2002-2010 Bonhams 1793 Ltd

The robustly-potted jar painted around the sides with a continuous scene depicting a phoenix perched on rockwork amidst a gnarled pine tree and blossoming peonies, all above a band of lappets at the foot, the shoulder with four shaped panels enclosing floral sprays at the rim against a blue diaper ground. 42.6cm (16¾in) high. Estimate: £4,000 - 6,000, HK$ 49,000 - 74,000, USD 6,300 - 9,500. Unsold

Provenance: a European private collection, gifted to the present owners by a family friend approximately 55 years ago.

Bonhams. Fine Chinese Art, 11 Nov 2010. New Bond Street  www.bonhams.com