A LARGE 'FAHUA'-TYPE GARLIC-HEAD VASE MING / QING DYNASTY

the compressed globular body rising to tall neck everting to a garlic-head mouth, decorated with large flowers around the neck and body, with jewelled garlands suspended around the neck and upright lappets encircling the foot, the design picked-out in yellow, blue, green and ivory-white enamels on a deep aubergine ground, the interior glazed green

There is a restored crack that starts 8 in. up from the base and curves down the body to the base, across the base and 6 in. up the other side of the body. There have been several large pieces broken out of the neck and restored back together. The whole vase has been covered with a clear restoration spray perhaps to stabilize the glaze or possibly to cover the inpainting on the manganese ground.
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.