A FINE RU-TYPE OCTAGONAL LONG-NECK VASE SEAL MARK AND PERIOD OF QIANLONG

of lobed octagonal section, the compressed ovoid body encircled by a horizontal channel, supported on a flared foot, set with a tall ribbed neck rising to a broad everted mouth, applied overall with a greyish-blue glaze suffused with an irregular network of thin crackles, the countersunk base inscribed with a six-character reign mark in underglaze blue

Christie's Hong Kong, 28th November 2005, lot 1303.

The overall condition is very good apart from some minor wear to the footrim. The actual colour is darker than the catalogue illustration.
"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."

This type of raised ring vessel evolved from excavated Song Guan ware from the Laohudong Guan ware kilnsite of the Southern Song in Hangzhou.  Similar vases can be found in the Huaihaitang Collection, illustrated in Ethereal Elegance, Art Museum at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 2008, cat. no. 27 and a pair from the Mr. and Mrs. J.M. Hu Collection in the Shanghai Museum illustrated in Imperial Monochromes: The Zande Lou Collection, Shanghai Museum, Shanghai, 2005, cat. no. 29. Compare with a similar vase sold in these rooms 8th April 2010, lot 1922.