A small qingbai carved globular vase, Song dynasty (960-1279). Photo Christie's Image Ltd 2014.

The vase is delicately potted with a wide globular body, rising to a straight cylindrical neck and a foliate rim, all supported on a short tapered foot. The body is intricately incised with scrolling floral designs. The vase is covered in a pale greenish-blue glaze, thinning to white at the extremities. 6 ¼ in. (15.9 cm.) high. Estimate £6,000 – £8,000 ($10,128 - $13,504)

Provenance: With Priestley & Ferraro, London, 7 June 2011.

Christie's. FINE CHINESE CERAMICS AND WORKS OF ART, 13 May 2014, London, King Street - http://www.christies.com/