Lot 488
  • 488

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

Estimate
150,000 - 200,000 HKD
bidding is closed

Description

  • porcelain
  • 11.3 cm, 4 1/2  in.
supported on a countersunk base, the upper bulb with an incurved rim and painted to the exterior with two dragons soaring amidst flames and ruyi-shaped clouds, the lower bulb similarly decorated with two further dragons above crashing waves, the base inscribed with a six-character reign mark

Condition

Part of the surface is slightly worn, with slight wear to glaze to the mouth rim, otherwise the vase is in overall good condition.
"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."

Catalogue Note

Small double-gourd vases of this type from the Jiajing period (r. 1522-1566) are rare and only a few related examples appear to have been published; see one from the Qing Court collection and still in Beijing, illustrated in The Complete Collection of Treasures of the Palace Museum. Blue and White Porcelain with Underglaze Red (II), Hong Kong, 2000, pl. 84; and another, sold in these rooms, 5th October 2016, lot 112. Compare also a vase of this form and size, decorated with dragon medallions reserved on a hexagonal-diaper ground, from the collection of Sir Percival David, sold twice in our London rooms, 15th October 1968, lot 102, and again, 13th March 1973, lot 245; and another sold in these rooms, 4th April 2012, lot 3168.