An important pair of green- and ochre-glazed tilemakers' figures of Buddhist lions Ming dynasty, 16th / 17th century

each menacing beast standing foursquare with head held high, fiercely snarling with jaws open to bare its sharp fangs and curled tongue, the ears pricked back and beady eyes bulging from excitement beneath the curly mane, wearing a studded collar suspending bells and tassels, the back further adorned with a long blanket below a ruyi-shaped saddle set with an alms bowl, all above the sharp claws gripping the edges of the rectangular base, covered overall in a rich dark-green and amber glaze (2)

Each still retaining the vibrant colors and in good condition. The figure on the left side of the catalogue illustration: With chips to the tip of one petal supporting the alms bowl, and another chip restuck. The proper left ear reglued with one small chip at the tip. There is a firing crack around the base of the alms bowl. The figure on the right side of the catalogue illustration: There are retouched cracks around one side of the saddle blanket and repainted chips along the body. Small firing cracks at the alms bowl with chips to the top of the bowl. The jaw appears to have been rebuilt and the tongue and bottom teeth are not glazed.
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.