A small blue and white square jar, Guan. 16th century.  Photo: Christie's Images Ltd 2012

The jar is painted to alternate sides with a pair of swimming Mandarin ducks amidst lotus leaves and flowers and a pair of cranes in flight. The sloping shoulder of the vase is decorated with a ruyi-collar and a lotus lappet band to the foot. 4 3/8 in. (11 cm.) high - Lot 358. Estimate £8,000 - £12,000 ($12,744 - $19,116)

Christie's. Fine Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art 15 May 2012 London, King Street www.christies.com