Chinese transitional period compressed ovoid form jar decorated in underglaze blue with birds and insects flying among bamboo and flowering plants emerging from rockery set against a white porcelain ground. The upright glazed neck is decorated with downward pointed leaves. Glazed interior and flat slightly recessed unglazed base. 17th century. Measures nearly 12" high. Very good overall condition. There is a fine old brown chicken foot crack in the interior (see image). From the estate of Gerhard Lohmeier, a Diplomat at the German Embassy in Beijing from 1985 to 1989.