Lot 23. An unusual iron-red and blue and white hexagonal double-gourd vase, Wanli period (1573-1619); 9 1/8in. (23cm.) high. Estimate GBP 4,000 - GBP 6,000. Price realised GBP 3,585. © Christie's Images Ltd 2003.

The lower body painted with alternate panels of fruiting peach and floral sprays, the stems forming shou characters, below a band of ribboned "objects" and peach sprays encircling the waist and further fruit and flower panels on the upper body, each facet reserved on an iron-red ground, the neck with a blue key pattern.