A Chinese Export 'Nativity' Tea Bowl Circa 1745

painted in grisaille and gilt.

Please note this is a sugar bowl or waste bowl, not a teabowl as catalogued. There is a 1/8 inch haircrack to the rim. Otherwise in good condition.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

While plates with this scene painted in grisaille are known to exist in several collections and museums, teawares painted with the subject are quite rare. An identical teabowl also with a spearhead border is illustrated by Howard and Ayers, 1978, Vol. I, p. 312, pl. 305. Another very similar teabowl was sold from the collection of Esther Pace Kuna at Sotheby's, New York, January 25, 1989, lot 236.