A SANCAI-GLAZED POTTERY BIRD-FORM OIL LAMP TANG DYNASTY |

molded as a plump-bodied recumbent bird with its neck arched over the opening between the feather-molded wings to grasp a lobed flower-form opening to support the wick, the body crisply molded with foliate decoration and feathers on a granulated ground, all beneath an amber and green-splashed glaze stopping irregularly above the base to reveal the buff pink body, the interior unglazed

New England Private Collection, acquired prior to the mid 1960s. 
Harlan J. Berk Ltd., Chicago. 

The lamp is in good condition for its age and type, with only minor expected wear and scattered small flakes to the glaze. There is firing line beneath the dish where it meets the vessel.
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.

Compare related bird-form sancai-glazed oil lamps, including one in the British Museum illustrated in Oriental Ceramics. The World's Great Collections, vol. 5, Tokyo, 1981, pl. 27, and another from the Georges deBatz collection sold at Christie's New York, 30th November 1983, lot 314.