A blue and white jardinière.Transitional period, circa 1630-1650. Photo Christie's Image Ltd, 2011

Of globular form with flaring rim, painted in tones of cobalt blue to one side of the exterior depicting a scene set within a terraced courtyard, including a scholar and five halberd-bearers, the other side with a scholar fishing, seated beneath a willow tree and surrounded by rockwork; 10¼ in. (26 cm.) diam. Estimate £15,000 - £25,000.  Price Realized £37,250

明末／清初   約1650-1650年   青花庭院人物圖盆

Provenance: With J. Lally & Co., New York.

Notes: The scene on the jardinère depicts the Zhou king, Wenwang, meeting Taigong Wang, a reclusive sage, fishing on the banks of the river Wei.

Fine Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art, 8 November 2011; London, King Street www.christies.com