A 'CIZHOU' SGRAFFIATO BOTTLE VASE, YUHUCHUNPING YUAN DYNASTY |

the broad, teardrop-shaped body supported on a straight foot and rising to a waisted neck and flaring rim, the body covered in cream-colored glaze cut away leaving three registers of scrolling foliate stems issuing lush peony blossoms all reserved against a taupe-glazed ground, classic scroll bands dividing the 'floral' registers, the rim and interior of the mouth glazed white, the stout foot unglazed revealing the buff-colored body, Japanese wood box (3)

English Private Collection, acquired in the 1930s. 

The vase is in good overall condition. The surface with wear and some areas of thinning glaze and craquelure. The vase has been cleaned and polished and there are a few minor glaze and potting imperfections consistent with age and type.
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.

The present vase is strikingly similar in form and technique to a Yuan dynasty Cizhou sgraffiato 'floral' yuhuchun vase published in Seikai toji zenshu [Ceramic art of the world]: 13 Ryou Kin Gen [13 Liao, Jin, Yuan], Tokyo, 1981, pl. 263; and an example in the collection of the Toguri Museum carved with a 'phoenix' design, published in Chūgoku tōji meihin zuroku / Chinese Ceramics in the Toguri Collection, Toguri Art Museum, Tokyo, 1988, cat. no. 58.