A Blue and White Box Mark and Period of Wanli

of rectangular form, the cover with rounded indented corners, painted in a rich underglaze blue with two finely depicted five-clawed dragons in pursuit of the 'flaming pearl' amidst clouds, the sides of the cover and bottom each decorated with a frieze of eight lotus spray scrolls, with keyfret pattern at the rim, the base with scrolling ruyi-heads, Japanese wood box (3)

There is a long area of kiln grit across the top of the box cover. There are scattered ironspots and burst bubbles throughout. The box has been restored in two sections in one corner along the rim, covering areas that measure approximately 1 x 1 cm and 1 x 1.25 cm, respectively. Overall the box and cover are 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.

A Wanli box and cover of this form and design is included in the Illustrated Catalogue of Tokyo National Museum. Chinese Ceramics, vol. II, Tokyo, 1990, pl. 108; another in L. Reidemeister, Ming-Porzellane in Schwedischen Sammlungen, Berlin, 1935, pl. 38B, from the Lauritzen collection in the Museum of Far Eastern Antiquities, Stockholm; and a third example was included in the Exhibition of Yuan and Ming Ceramics, The Japanese Ceramic Society, Tokyo, 1956, cat.no. 163, together with a box of this shape painted with figures, cat.no. 160.

A similar covered box was sold twice in our London rooms, 10th February 1970, lot 74, and again, 5th December 1995, lot 268; and another was sold in our Hong Kong rooms, 28th November 1979, lot 109.