A white jade 'twin bird' hat ornament, Ming dynasty (1368-1644) or earlier. Estimate £3,000 - £5,000 ($4,554 - $7,590). Price Realized £22,500 ($34,155). Photo Christie's Image Ltd 2015

The ornament is carved and pierced as two birds side by side with their beaks touching, with finely incised feathers to their backs. There is a small inset green hardstone to the back of one bird. The stone is of an even milky white tone. 2 1/8 in. (5.4 cm.) long

Provenance: A private European collection. 

Christie's. CHINESE CERAMICS, WORKS OF ART AND TEXTILES, 13 November 2015, London, South Kensington