A SMALL BLUE AND WHITE 'DRAGON' JAR MARK AND PERIOD OF WANLI

of compressed globular form, the rounded sides rising from a recessed base to a short tapering neck, decorated on the exterior in soft shades of cobalt with a pair of scaly dragons striding among flowers in pursuit of a 'flaming pearl', above four evenly spaced rocky outcrops rising from a turbulent sea, all between a border of upright lappets skirting the base and a band of pendent petals encircling the rim, the recessed base inscribed in underglaze blue with a six-character reign mark within a double ring, wood stand

Songzhutang Collection, no. 59.
Bonhams London, 11th November 2002, lot 175.

The mouthrim has a very minute shallow flake to the glaze. There are also a few crackles in the glaze to the interior, especially along the luting lines, but they do not pass through to the exterior. Apart from some minor surface scratches and pinpricks, the overall condition of the jar is very good.
"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."

Compare a slightly smaller Wanli waterpot of similar form and decoration, but the dragon painted between two ruyi bands at shoulder and foot, included in the exhibition The Fame of Flame. Imperial Wears of the Jiajing and Wanli Periods, University Museum and Art Gallery, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 2009, cat. no. 51; and another, but the design reverse-painted to depict dragons pencilled on a blue ground, sold in these rooms, 24th November 1987, lot 37.