Lot 167. A gold and silver-inlaid bronze archaistic 'wheeled' bird-form vessel, Ming dynasty (1368-1644); 7 1/2 in. (19 cm.) high.Estimate HKD 40,000 - HKD 60,000. Price realised HKD 237,500. © Christie's Image Ltd 2015

The vessel is well cast as a bird perched on an axle between two spoked wheels and supported in the back by a smaller wheel inserted into the tail. The upswept wings, body, head and tail are inlaid in silver and gold with small patches of simulated encrustation. A jade pedant of later date covers the opening at the centre of the back.

Christie's. THE PAVILION SALE - CHINESE CERAMICS AND WORKS OF ART, 6 April 2015, 22nd Floor