A Safavid blue and white octagonal ceramic soft paste porcelain dish, Iran, 17th century. Photo: Christie's Images Ltd 2007

Of octagonal form, on short foot, with two central seated figures after the Chinese style surrounded by floral sprays, each corner of the rim with a large palmette containing stylised floral motifs, the exterior with meandering flowering vine, the underside with makers mark, repaired break, negilible repainting; 8 7/8in. (22.5cm.) diam. Price Realized £3,600

Christie's. Art of the Islamic and Indian Worlds, 17 April 2007, London, King Street