A LARGE AND RARE PAIR OF SANCAI-GLAZED LIONS MING DYNASTY

modelled as a male and female beast, each seated on its haunches on a rectangular base resting a paw on a brocade ball, one with jaws open in full roar exposing sharp fangs and broad curled tongue, the other with jaws closed, the bulging eyes peering from below bushy eyebrows, with a mane of tight curly tufts above a studded collar suspending bells, and a long bushy tail curled to the side, covered overall with a thick rich green glaze, with the mane and details accented in a bright ochre glaze

The pair of lions are in good overall condition with the exception of the following. Lion with mouth open: losses to the four corners of the base (22 x 12cm., 13 x 10cm., 15 x 10cm., and 25 x 11cm.); restoration to the tip of the tail, to the tips of bopth ears, to the tips of several teeth, and to the front left leg; two long firing lines, which split into furtehr short horizontal lines, running from the shoulder to the base; loss to the top of one coil of the mane; minor chips and glaze fritting and minor firing imperfections characteristic to a piece of this size. Lion with mouth closed: Similar firing lines to the back of the creature as above; restoration to the tip of the left ear, the tip and back of the tail; two triangular-shaped losses to the corners of the base (each circa 13 x 18cm.); and similar glaze and firing imperfections as above.
"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."