A RARE ARMORIAL CANTON ENAMEL DISH QING DYNASTY, YONGZHENG/EARLY QIANLONG PERIOD

the interior enamelled in famille-rose with a central medallion enclosing the arms of Bishop Silvio Valenti Gonzaga (1690-1756), framed by two pheasants, the cavetto with a ruyi lappet band with lotus, florets and quarterings from the armorial all reserved against a cloud scroll ground, the underside and base enamelled white

The dish is in general good condition with the exception of small enamel flakes to the interior under the rim at 11 and 1 o'clock positions, and possible retouching to the enamels. There is general crazing/narrow cracks with associated flakes to the enamels, such as the peony flower below the armorial and the pheasants on either side. The base with further enamel crazing. The gilt-bronze rim and foot with minor dents and rubbing to the gilding.
"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."

The present dish appears to have been made as part of a service for Bishop Silvio Valenti Gonzaga, who was elevated to the rank of cardinal in 1738 by Pope Clement XII. A Canton enamel dish of the same design was exhibited in Chinese Painted Enamel, Ashmolean Museum, Oxfod 1978, cat. no. 105, and another from the collection of J.A. Lloyd Hyde was exhibited in Chinese Painted Enamels from Private and Museum Collections, The China Institute of America, New York, 1978, cat. no. 39.