A BLUE AND WHITE STAND MARK AND PERIOD OF WANLI |

of circular section, the openwork cabriole sides modelled with five cusped flanges alternating with five ruyi-shaped heads, all between two rings forming the top and base respectively, the sides decorated in underglaze blue with lingzhi scrolls and pairs of birds perched on fruiting and flowering branches, all above a band rendered with florets against a ground of stylised waves, the rim with beribboned bajixiang emblems flanking a central rectangular cartouche enclosing a six-character reign mark

The stand is in good overall condition with typical minor firing imperfections. There are expected surface wear and small flakes from usage, with the rims lightly polished/worn down.
"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."

A comparable stand in the Huaihaitang collection, also decorated with bajixiang and birds perching on branches, was included in the exhibition Enlightening Elegance. Imperial Porcelain of the Mid to Late Ming, Art Museum, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 2013, cat. no. 112. It is suggested that this rare type of stand was related to religious rituals and was probably used to hold altar vases (pp. 354 and 356).