Lot 3876. A finely carved Ming cinnabar lacquer brush and cover, Ming dynasty, 16th century, 10 1/8 in. (25.8 cm.) overall. Estimate HKD 120,000 - HKD 180,000. Price realised HKD 175,000 © Christie's Images Ltd 2011

The cylindrical shaft well-carved in high relief with leafy prunus branches bearing blossoms and buds, the cover similarly carved with the addition of a cricket on a stalk of millet, all reserved on intricate diaper framed by keyfret bands, the ends of the cover and shaft with crane medallions, Japanese wood box. 

Provenance: A Japanese private collection.

Christie's. Important Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art, 30 May 2012, Hong Kong, HKCEC Grand Hall