Lot 278. A blue and white 'Dragon and Phoenix' bat-shaped box and cover, Wanli six-character mark in underglaze blue in a double square and of the period (1573-1619); 6 ¾ in. (17 cm.) wide. Estimate GBP 10,000 - GBP 15,000 (USD 13,050 - USD 19,575). © Christie's Images Ltd 2019

The cover of the box is decorated in shades of cobalt blue with a dragon and phoenix in flight amongst clouds, with the shape of the raised panel conforming to the bat-shaped contours of the box. The sides are decorated with bands of triangles enclosing florets and tumultuous waves.