Previously sold at Sotheby's Hong Kong, 27 April 1993, lot 171 and again, 2 November 1998, lot 385.

The design originates from the Chenghua prototype, such as the example with chrysanthemums and butterflies, illustrated in Chogoku Toji Zenshu, vol.21, pl.1.

Qing blue and white examples of this pattern appear to be very rare. A similar Qianlong marked jar and cover decorated in doucai enamels in the National Palace Museum, Taipei, is included in the Illustrated Catalogue of Ch'ing Dynasty Porcelain in the National Palace Museum, Vol. II, Taipei, 1981, pl. 24.