Carved in low relief with formal decoration, the 8in (20cm) wide pale celadon bowl had ring handles to the sides and the domed cover was crowned with a dragon pierced knop.

It came from a private local source known to the auctioneers who had inherited it some years ago, and was in good condition.

It drew interest from the Far East as well as non-resident Chinese buyers. It sold to a buyer with a British address at £38,000 plus 17.5 per cent buyer’s premium.