A Blue and White 'Lotus' dish Mark and Period of Wanli

molded as an open lotus flower on a low straight foot, painted in rich underglaze-blue, the center well with a medallion containing Tibetan or Sanskrit ligatures, bordered by two rings of ruyi clouds, further encircled by two rows of lotus petals, each concave and outlined with double blue lines, decorated at the tips with scrolls and swirls, the exterior petals with further ligatures alternating with floral sprays, above another row of blue-lined petals, Japanese wood box (2)

There is considerable rim fritting and some glaze pulling, kiln grit, and burst bubbles throughout. Overall the dish is in good condition.
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.

The Tibetan or Sanskrit ligatures are of no obvious meaning, although the eight on the exterior petals may together form a mantra. Many similar dishes are in public collections, including in The British Museum, Hong Kong Museum of Art, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the Baur Collection in Geneva.