A RARE 'CIZHOU' 'LOTUS' JAR NORTHERN SONG DYNASTY

the rounded sides rising from a spreading foot to an incurving rim, the exterior covered with a white slip skilfully carved through with a wide band of a repeat design of a double lotus scroll, covered with a translucent beige glaze stopping at the base of the band, the unglazed foot revealing a greyish-white body

Acquired from John Sparks Ltd., London in the 1930s (by repute).
George Harwood Snr, Johannesburg, South Africa.
Thence by descent.

The jar is in good condition with the exception of light flaking to the glaze encircling the rim and minor glaze flakes to the lower body on the exterior.
"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."

This piece is unusual for its shape, which resembles the form of Jun waterpots, and its decoration that has been confidently incised in a carefree manner. Although no other closely related example appears to have been published, a Cizhou jar of similar shape and carved with a floral scroll through two layers of different coloured slips, in the Idemitsu Museum of Arts, Tokyo, is illustrated in Cizhou Ware of China. Its Charm and Taste, Tokyo, 2005, pl. 42.