A GILT-DECORATED FAMILLE-ROSE 'DAJI' 'DOUBLE GOURD' PLAQUE QING DYNASTY, QIANLONG – JIAQING PERIOD |

moulded after a flattened beribboned double-gourd vase resting on a short foot and supported on a simulated wood stand, rendered with an iron-red surface picked out in gilt with a diapered ground, framing a gilt-rimmed white medallion on each bulb, the medallions enclosing the characters da and ji ('great happiness') respectively and encircled with five outstretched blue-outlined bats, all above a ruyi border skirting the foot, the shaped plaque further rendered with a billowing turquoise ribbon tied around the constricted waist and surmounted by a large gilt bat at the mouth-rim, affixed to a wood frame

Overall good condition except for some expected stains and surface scratches. There are also minute losses and typical wear to the enamels and gilt decoration. The plaque has not been inspected out of its frame.
"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."

Gourd-shaped vases inscribed with the characters daji (great happiness) are traditional good luck charms. Compare a daji plaque sold in these rooms, 2nd May 1995, lot 156; and another sold at Christie's Hong Kong, 30th October 2001, lot 743, and again in these rooms, 4th April 2012, lot 3189. See also a similar daji hanging vase in the Shanghai Museum, illustrated in Selected Ceramics from the Collection of Mr. and Mrs. J. M. Hu, Shanghai, 1989, pl. 70.