A small green-glazed stoneware flask, Liao dynasty (907-1125). © Christie's Image 2003

Modelled after leather prototypes, the swelling body flattened at the top below a finger-pinched loop handle attached to a cylindrical spout with molded rim and raised band at its base, covered with a thin bright green glaze over a white slip falling irregularly to expose the buff ware - 10 5/8in. (27cm.) high - Lot 231. Estimate $3,000 - $5,000. Price Realized $2,390 

CHRISTIE'S. FINE CHINESE CERAMICS AND WORKS OF ART, 18 September 2003, New York, Rockefeller Plaza