A large polychrome 'phoenix' jar Late Ming dynasty

the robustly-potted body rising from a flat base to a rounded shoulder and short waisted neck, brightly decorated in underglaze-blue and enamels with phoenix and other birds in flight amidst rockwork issuing bamboo, peony and magnolia, all reserved on an iron-red diaper ground, the neck applied with a pair of floret handles

There is a 31cm crack running from the rim down the body to one side and a 29cm crack running down the side of the other. There is also a 5cm crack running virtically from the rim. There is a 1.7cm by 1.2cm chip to the exterior rim and several smaller chips and fritting to the rim. There is scratches to the iron-red enamel and some minor areas of enamel loss to the sides.
"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."