Lot 330. A rare blue and white sprinkler, Ming Dynasty, Jiajing period (1522-1566); 23.5cm., 9 1/4 in. Estimate 15,000 - 25,000 GBP. Lot sold 18,750 GBP. Photo Sotheby's

comprising of three bulbous sections supported on a spreading foot, the lower section painted with stylised shou character medallions separated by flanges, the central square section with shaped cartouches divided by flanges and enclosing rooster, tiger, hare and carp, all below a tall waisted neck with cash diaper ground, culminating in the head modelled as a lotus pod with seven apertures, the foot with keyfret and lappet bands

Provenance: A Belgian Private Collection, 8th August 1957 (according to label).

Sotheby's. Fine Chinese Ceramics & Works of Art. London, 07 nov. 2012