清十九世紀 天藍地青花釉裏紅松鵲圖大瓶

of baluster form rising from a rounded foot to an upturned rim, painted with a continuous composition of twelve magpies perching or soaring amid the branches of an iron-red pine tree, the birds' plumage naturalistically rendered in underglaze blue and white enamel, all against a sky-blue ground, the base white, wood stand (2)

Two chips to the rim (longest approx. 1.2 cm), minor firing imperfections (small glaze gaps to the interior of the mouth, pinhole-size speckles on the foot, iron spots on the footring), and minor expected wear to the surface and footring. Please note that this lot includes a stand, frame or other component made from a type of Chinese hardwood, which, if exported, will require a CITES permit to leave the United States. 
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.

In Chinese language, the magpie is known as xique (bird of joy), and blue magpies with long tails are referred to as shoudainiao (birds with longevity ribbon). The pine tree is a symbol of longevity and endurance. The number twelve refers to the number of hours in the day, with the Chinese hour equating to two Western hours. The motif on this vase thus serves as a double rebus: a wish for happiness throughout the day, and a wish for longevity.