Lot 241. A rare blue and white ewer and cover, Ming dynasty, 15th century, 10¼ in. (26 cm.) high. Estimate GBP 25,000 - GBP 35,000. Price realised GBP 31,250. © Christie's Images Ltd 2011 

The ovoid body with tall flaring neck, slender S-scroll faceted spout and C-scroll handle, painted to the body with a wide band depicting an Immortal and attendant seated on rockwork below bamboo and weeping willow among clouds, the reverse with a figure on horseback with boy attendant carrying lanterns suspended from a pole, the neck with two phoenix in flight among clouds, all between borders of stiff leaves and classic scroll to the neck and a band of lappets to the foot, the handle and spout with interspersed pearls and flames, the cover in the form of a flowerhead.

Provenance: Formerly from the collection of Dr. Yamashita, 1920s. 

Christie's. Fine Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art, 10 May 2011, London