A magnificent Chinese Imperial dragon and phoenix jar, Jiaqing six character iron red seal mark and of the period (1796-1820), decorated in enamels, iron-red and gilt, with a strident dragon and a phoenix in flight amongst exotic flowers and scrolls, a stylised band around the top and bottom, the interior and base glazed turquoise. 25.5 cm high. Provenance: An Australian gentleman joined the British army, attending Sandhurst military academy in the 1880s and was then stationed in India. He was sent to China at the turn of the century, where he acquired this imperial jar. He later married and returned to Australia. It was then handed down by descent to the current owner.