Buckman collection in spotlight at London auction

A silver hand-held mirror.

Archival materials and books from Buckman's personal library further paint a rich picture of a man and his passion for Chinese culture.

"He had a really enlightened view of China's cultural achievements," says Halstead.

And that was at a time when Westerners thought "the nation was probably slightly backward", he adds.

The headline lot on sale is the 1944 hanging scroll ink painting, Garden Balsam and Butterflies, by Qi Baishi, who is considered "Picasso of Chinese art" and a forefather of modern Chinese painting.

The vibrant work was most likely a diplomatic gift, says Halstead, and is offered at a "conservative" estimate of $24,000 to $36,000.

Another noteworthy piece is a delightful Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) carving of Zhou Tanzi, a figure in Chinese folklore that represents filial piety. Zhou disguised himself as a deer to obtain milk for his aging parents - a story that's depicted in this beautifully carved dark jade creation that has an almost woodlike patina.

Other highlights include a range of wonderful rock-crystal scholar's objects - each complete with individuals stands - including an unusual Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) wrist rest.