A CHINESE EXPORT SUGAR BOWL NAMED FOR 'SMITH' CIRCA 1785-90

painted on the front and reverse with a figure of 'Hope' leaning on an anchor above an oval medallion inscribed SMITH, beneath an underglaze-blue 'Fitzhugh'-type border.

Wear to the gilding on the rim edge, 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.

Howard, 1974, p. 678, no. U3, suggests that this service may have been made for George Smith, an English private trader at Canton from around 1764 to 1790. Perhaps more likely however is that the service was made for Henry Smith of Providence, Rhode Island, supercargo on the ship 'George Washington' on her maiden voyage to China in 1784. A punch bowl known to have been ordered by Smith is now at the Winterthur Museum and is illustrated in detail by Mudge, 1982, p. 134, figs. 40a, b, c, d and e. Also at Winterthur is a dish from the present service, illustrated by Palmer, 1976, p. 118, fig. 78.