Lot 194. A rare Ming porcelain pen box, Xuande reign, China, 1426-1435 AD, 12 5/8in. (32.1cm.) long. Estimate GBP 80,000 - GBP 120,000 (USD 106,080 - USD 159,120). © Christie's Images Ltd 2017

Of rectangular form with rounded ends and separate lid, the white ground decorated in underglaze cobalt-blue, the body with four cartouches of scrolling vine, set on a ground of hexagons, the lid similarly decorated with a central medallion flower panel surrounded by stylised ‘Golden Horn’ cloudbands, inside of lid with plum blossom, bamboo and pine, the interior set with a small separate porcelain inkwell and apertures for other writing implements, Chinese inscriptions on the inner lid and outer body bearing the reign mark of the Xuande Emperor, intact.

Christie's. Art of the Islamic and Indian Worlds Including Oriental Rugs and Carpets, 26 October 2017, London