A MASSIVE BLUE AND WHITE TRIPLE-GOURD VASE QING DYNASTY, KANGXI PERIOD

the two lower bulbs painted on a bright blue ground with lively dragons striding amidst luxuriant floral meander bearing large peony, lotus and chrysanthemum blooms, the upper bulb painted with three shaped floral medallions below a band of upright acanthus leaves, the rim and upper section of the neck with gilt mount

Collection of Mrs. Henry P. Walters, New York.
Parke Bernet Galleries, New York, 24th April 1941, lot 253.
Collection of William Gruber.

The vase is in overall good condition however the presence of the gilt mount around the rim suggests that there may be some damage in that area but the mount is firmly affixed preventing further inspection.
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.

Vases of this size and form are few in number. Large scale triple-gourd vases were made in roughly two sizes; either 28 inches or the much rarer 36 inch size of the present example. Vases of this large scale and superlative quality were much favored and sought after by some of the earliest collectors of underglaze blue and white including Augustus II the Strong (1670-1733), whose collection may be seen at the Zwinger in Dresden, Germany.

The vase was in the former collection of Mr. Henry Walters (1848-1931) founder of the famous Walters Collection in Baltimore, Maryland.  After his father's death, Walters moved the headquarters of the family's successful railroad company, The Atlantic Coastline Company, from Baltimore to New York where he lived.  Despite his preference for New York and involvement with the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Walters left The Walters Collection, house and contents to the city of Baltimore. His widow Sarah, remained in their New York apartment, the contents of which, including the present vase, was sold over a three-day period in 1941.