A Rock Crystal 'Peaches and Pine' Waterpot Qing Dynasty, 18th Century

deftly carved and hollowed as a ripe peach and a tree trunk, gnarled branches of pine blossoms meandering around the trunk with a small sprig of lingzhi blossoms issuing from the base at its side, the stem of the hollowed peach bearing a further peach with an outstretched bat on its underside, the base of the trunk finely detailed with uneven growth rings, wood stand

There is a 1.5cm chip to the tip of the branch at the reverse. There is minute nick to the interior of the smaller mouth. Other general surface wear.
"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."

Rock-crystal was used as a medium for high quality ornamentation produced at the Imperial Palace Workshops in the 18th century, especially during the Qianlong period. For a rock-crystal flower container of similar quality to the current piece, from the Qing Court Collection and still in Beijing, see The Complete Collection of Treasures of the Palace Museum. Treasures of Imperial Court, Hong Kong, 2004, p. 28, pl. 23. See also a Qianlong period rock-crystal washer from the Mary and George Bloch Collection, sold in these rooms, 23rd October 2005, lot 18.