A FINE FAMILLE-VERTE 'ROMANCE OF THE WESTERN CHAMBER' PHOENIX-TAIL VASE QING DYNASTY, KANGXI PERIOD |

the baluster form body sweeping to a wide flaring rim, the rounded sides vibrantly enameled with a continuous animated scene depicting the victorious moment of Huiming, robes flying in the wind, running alongside General Du, sitting astride a galloping steed with arms raised preparing to throw a long lance in pursuit of the fleeing rebel Sun Feihu, observed in the distance from the monastery walls by the abbot and Zhang, the upper section of the vase portraying an official, accompanied by a large retinue, respectfully presenting a scroll to a humble farmer followed from behind by a large water buffalo, the base plain, coll. no. 1337

Marchant, London, 2003.

The vase is in good condition with minor characteristic glaze flaws including a short glaze tear to the interior rim and a burst glaze bubble at the peak of a mountain beneath the rim.
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 illustrates two popular narratives that served to encourage the dream of achieving an official rank. The enormously popular play, Romance of the Western Chamber, recounts the travails of a young man who finally wins permission to marry the woman he loves. The scene of an official granting a scroll to a humble farmer references hopeful poems of the period such as A Farmer in the Morning Becomes a Court Official in the Evening.