The bowl is decorated on the exterior with lotus, peony, prunus and chrysanthemum sprays, all below a carved diaper band beneath the rim. The interior is decorated with the immortal He Xiangu on the well and babao around the raised, dome-shape center. 7 ½ in. (19 cm.) diam. Two firing cracks on the interior and a few pin prick holes; a few short glaze gaps on the exterior; a few imperfections under the glaze, which are original to manufacture. Estimation: USD 6,000 - 8,000

Provenance: S. Marchant & Son Ltd, London, according to label.

Christie's on line. The Art of China.