A RARE AND UNUSUAL PAIR OF CHINESE EXPORT PORCELAIN FAMILLE-ROSE BALUSTER VASES AND COVERS QING DYNASTY, CIRCA 1740

each of inverted pear form, brightly enameled around the body in trompe l'oeil style with a blue and pink brocade sash, tied to secure a basket of flowers suspended from a gnarled walking stick, butterflies, floral medallions and flower stalks, the sash superimposed with a further basket of flowers, floral medallions and flower stalks, the shoulder and cover painted in gilding with grape and morning-glory vines, all surmounted by a lotus bud-finial.

The first: there is an approximately 2 1/2 in. restored section of the rim to one cover. There is overall wear to gilding, scratches and signs of wear. The second: the cover with a shallow chip to the interior rim, and a chip to outer rim edge. Overall wear to gilding and signs of wear.
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.

It is rare to find a pair of vases with this type of decoration. One similar vase sold at Christie's London, June 27, 1977, lot 51.