Included amongst these is lot 702, an impressive ivory figurine of an Immortal standing 65cm high, the bearded and laughing figure modelled wearing a layered robe and holding a staff and a flower-filled basket in his hands. It carries a pre-sale estimate of R20 000-30 000. Lot 704 is a pair of late Qing dynasty ivory boxes and covers, each cover finely modelled in the form of rooster, the box with feather details and a gourd-shaped aperture. This pair carry an estimate of R40 000-60 000. The pièce de résistance amongst this collection of ivory, however, is lot 701, a Ming dynasty ivory figurine of a Dutch lady attired in 16^th Century costume. In his book, ‘Chinese Ivory Sculpture’, Warren F Cox, in plate 13, makes reference to the possibility that this is one of only two such pieces known to exist. At a height of 24,5cm, excluding the stand, it carries a pre-sale estimate of R 80 000-100 000. Moving away from ivory, lot 703 is a 19^thcentury Chinese bamboo carving depicting scholars and travellers on oxen in a mountain scene; this carries an attractive pre-sale estimate of R15 000-20 000.

 

For further information contact Ainsley Taylor on 011 880 3125 or e-mail:  ainsley.taylor@swelco.co.za .