A LARGE POLYCHROME 'ZHANGZHOU' 'ARHAT' DISH LATE MING DYNASTY, 16TH / 17TH CENTURY

the steep gently rounded sides with a slightly everted, lipped rim, brightly painted with red, green and turquoise enamels, the center depicting the arhat Pindola, a magic ring in each hand, taming a menacing tiger, above him, another arhat, Nantimitolo, raising aloft a powerful spiritual pearl which subdues the dragon, the cavetto with alternating flowers and pagodas, the base with concentric iron-red lines at the rim and foot, Japanese wood box

The dish is in overall good condition. There are some minor glaze flakes and wear to the enamels. The base with extensive kiln grit.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

A dish of similar design is illustrated in Toji Taikei, vol. 45, Tokyo, 1976, no. 57. Another in the Victoria and Albert Museum is illustrated in Oriental Ceramics, The World's Great Collections, Victoria and Albert Museum, vol. 6, Tokyo, 1976, fig. 174. A related dish with a simpler border sold in our Hong Kong rooms, 20th November 1984, lot 342. A similar dish sold recently in our London rooms 5th November 2014, lot 102.