Lot 89. A large blue and white 'dragon' jardinière, Jiajing six-character mark in underglaze blue in a line and of the period (1522-66); 18 ¾ in. (47.6 cm.) diam. Estimate GBP 150,000 - GBP 80,000 (USD 64,850 - USD 103,760). Unsold. © Christie's Images Ltd 2019.

The heavily potted vessel with deep flaring sides is decorated with two sinuous winged dragons in pursuit amongst large lotus heads and buds, interlinked with scrolling tendrils. The rim is encircled by a band of ruyi-shaped clouds. The foot is encircled by a band of stylised lappets stopping just above the unglazed base.

Note: Jardinières from the Jiajing period of similar size and decorated with dragons striding through scrolling lotus are very rare. Compare the present jardinière to another similarly-shaped example with dragon motif sold at Christie's Hong Kong, 1 June 2016, lot 3318.