A FINE CELADON-GLAZED DRUM-SHAPED VESSEL SEAL MARK AND PERIOD OF QIANLONG

the ovoid body rising to a slightly incurved mouth rim, elegantly moulded with two taotie mask handles suspending mock rings between broad raised bands picked out with bosses around the base and rim, covered overall with an even pale celadon glaze finely suffused with bubbles and thinning to white on the raised parts and rim, except for a ring left unglazed around the recessed base, the base inscribed with a six-character seal mark in underglaze blue, Japanese wood box

A private Japanese collection.

The vase is in quite good condition with only a few light surface scratches to the glaze. The actual colour of the vase is quite close to 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."