Lot 2116. A very rare blue and white 'dragon' bowl, Wanli six-character mark in underglaze blue within a double circle and of the period (1573-1619); 5 in. (12.7 cm.) wide. Estimate USD 40,000 - USD 60,000. Price Realized USD 68,750. © Christie's Images Ltd 2014. 

The bowl is thinly potted with rounded sides flaring to a gently everted mouth rim. The exterior is painted in cobalt of deep sapphire-blue tones with two striding five-clawed dragons in pursuit of 'flaming pearls' above a band of ruyi heads encircling the foot. The interior medallion is decorated with a further dragon amidst cloud scroll, cloth box, wood stand.

Christie's. Fine Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art, New York, 20 - 21 March 2014