A LARGE LONGQUAN CELADON BOWL MING DYNASTY, 15TH CENTURY

heavily potted with deep rounded sides supported on a short foot, freely carved on the interior with a central leafy floral medallion enclosed by a broad lotus meander, the exterior with a similar floral band all below a key fret band at the mouth, covered overall in a rich celadon-green glaze pooling to a darker colour in the recesses of the carving  

Collection of Kokei Kobayashi (1883-1957), an artist who greatly contributed to modern Japanese painting.
A Private Japanese Collection.

The bowl is in good condition overall, with only surface scratches and wear. There are a few glaze gaps on the interior, and on the footrim. There is a short firing line on the base of approx 0.4cm. There is slight white speckling under the glaze, concentrated on the interior.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."