A WUCAI CRICKET JAR MING DYNASTY, 16TH / 17TH CENTURY

the deep straight sides of the cylindrical container slightly bowing in the middle, painted on the exterior in green, turquoise, yellow and iron-red enamels with large peony blooms issuing from rocks and birds perched on branches, fitted with a later black lacquer cover

Formerly in a Japanese Collection.

Apart from the light scratches to the enamelling and some scratches on the interior (most likely from use as a cricket jar), the overall condition is very good. The original cover is missing.
"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."

The present lot most likely was used as the arena for fighting crickets. The light scratches on the interior give possible evidence as to the original use of this container.  It most likely would have had a matching porcelain cover with pierced holes.  See a similar Kangxi period cricket jar in the Shanghai Museum, illustrated in Wang Qingzheng et al., Kangxi Porcelain Wares from the Shanghai Museum, Hong Kong, 1998, cat.no. 114. 

The painting decoration is seen on 16th century pieces including a stembowl in the Musée Guimet, illustrated in Xavier Besse, La Chine des porcelaines, Paris, 2004, cat.no. 14.  See also a dish in the Palace Museum, Beijing, with a similar bird and flower decoration, illustrated in The Complete Collection of Treasures of the Palace Museum, Hong Kong, 1999, no. 2.