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

The vase is finely potted with broad shoulders and tall tapered sides, with a short cylindrical ribbed neck. It is freely carved to the exterior with scrolling foliate designs highlighted by combed incisions. The transparent glaze is of a pale blue tone, thinning to a creamy white at the extremities. 13 ? in. (34 cm.) high. Estimate £10,000 – £15,000 ($16,880 - $25,320)

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