A FINE PAIR OF DOUCAI 'FLORAL' DISHES MARKS AND PERIOD OF YONGZHENG |

each well potted with shallow rounded sides rising from a shallow foot to a slightly everted rim, the interior vibrantly decorated with a medallion enclosing five large blooms, all wreathed by meandering foliage issuing green feathery leaves, all within a double-line band repeated at the inner rim, the exterior similarly decorated with a frieze of eight stylised lotus flowers, the base inscribed in underglaze blue with a six-character reign mark within a double circle, wood stands

There are original faint and short glaze crackles to the rim of the right dish and tiny kiln flakes to the footring. The dishes are in very good condition with the enamels unusually well preserved.
"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."

While Yongzheng doucai vessels decorated with floral scrolls are anything but uncommon, the present design appears to be highly unusual for its colouration, especially the addition of yellow on leaves. The predominant use of cobalt blue on the stems is another rare feature, which is more often found on blue and white wares.  A dish of this size and rare design was sold at Christie's Hong Kong, 20th March 1990, lot 650. See also a slightly smaller pair of dishes, sold in our London rooms, 13th December 1988, lot 270, again at Christie's Hong Kong, 20th March 1990, lot 657, and a third time in these rooms, 28th April 1992, lot 203.