A CLAIR-DE-LUNE GLAZED BOWL YONGZHENG MARK AND PERIOD

the deep rounded sides rising from a straight foot to a slightly flaring rim, the exterior covered with a lustrous pale lavender-blue glaze, the interior and the base white, the base inscribed with a six-character Yongzheng mark within a double circle

John Sparks Ltd., London, 1953.

The bowl is in very good condition with the exception of a 0.1cm scratch near the rim, and two 1cm scratches, several burst glaze bubbles and iron spots at the well. There is very minor surface scratching and a very small (0.1 x 0.1cm) chip to the footring.
"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 bowl is notable for the translucency of the glaze which creates a sense of depth through the gradation of the white of the rim to the darker areas where the glaze has pooled. A Yongzheng bowl of related form and colour, but glazed on both sides, was sold at Christie's Hong Kong, 13^th January 1987, lot 491. Compare a slightly larger Yongzheng mark and period bowl of more flared form, illustrated in John Ayers, Chinese Ceramics in the Baur Collection, vol. 2, Geneva, 1999, pl. A265, where it is catalogued as covered in a 'light blue glaze'.