A RARE SMALL BLUE AND WHITE 'DRAGON' DOUBLE-GOURD VASE MARK AND PERIOD OF JIAJING

finely potted with a globular lower bulb surmounted by a smaller upper bulb with an incurved mouthrim, all supported on a countersunk base, the upper bulb decorated in rich tones of cobalt-blue with a pair of five-clawed dragons soaring amidst flaming wisps and ruyi-shaped clouds, the lower bulb similarly decorated with a pair of striding dragons above crashing waves, the foot bordered with a band of ruyi lappets, the base inscribed with a six-character reign mark

The mouth has a hairline of approx. 1.4 cm and typical fritting with minor losses. There are also some expected surface scratches and minor firing imperfections such as an underglazed body line and unevenness of the glaze.
"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 type of small double-gourd vase from the Jiajing period is rare and only a handful of examples with the same decoration is known. See one example from the Qing Court collection and still preserved in the Palace Museum, Beijing, illustrated in Blue and White Porcelain with Underglaze Red (II), Hong Kong, 2000, pl. 84.