A SANCAI-GLAZED POTTERY AMPHORA TANG DYNASTY

the ovoid body rising from a spreading foot to rounded shoulders beneath a waisted neck surmounted by a cup-shaped mouth, the exterior splashed with green, ochre and straw-coloured glazes falling in streaks and stopping irregularly around the lower part of the body, the unglazed rim and foot revealing the buff-coloured body

Auctioned in Sweden, 1960s.
Acquired in New York by current owner.

The amphora is slightly leaned to one side. The overall condition is very good, except for some shallow flakes, including a circular one of approx. 1.3 by 1 cm to the reverse, a narrow one to the mouthrim, and several ones to the biscuit foot. There are also minor surface wear as well as some typical potting and firing flaws such as a small firing crack and underglazed scratches to the right shoulder. The actual amphora is of slightly more vibrant tones than 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."

A closely related vase from the Victor Rienaecker and Lodge collections, included in the exhibition Wares of the T'ang Dynasty,  Oriental Ceramic Society, London, 1949, cat.no. 124, was sold in these rooms, 10th December 1968, lot 84. Compare also another sancai glazed vase of this form in the Museum Pusat, Jakarta, illustrated in Oriental Ceramics. The World's Great Collections, vol. 3, Tokyo, 1982, pl. 35.  

Compare also a vase from the collections of Mr and Mrs F. Brodie Lodge and Victor Rienaccker, sold in our London rooms, 10th December 1968, lot 84.