A MASSIVE 'GE'-GLAZED VASE, FANGHU SEAL MARK AND PERIOD OF YONGZHENG

robustly potted of rectangular section, based on archaic bronze form, with high sloping shoulders tapering to a slightly flared foot, the upright neck flanked on the narrow sides with a pair of arched handles terminating below the shoulder with moulded ruyi heads, all beneath a thick pale grey glaze suffused with a fine and even network of black crackles, the base inscribed in underglaze-blue with a six-character reign mark stand

Formerly in a Japanese Collection.

There is a slight lean to the vase, but the overall condition is very good.
"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."

This vase is based on the Western Zhou archaic bronze form of the fanghu. In the Song Dynasty, the forms were revived and popular in ge and guan glazes. In the Ming and Qing dynasties, there was a second revival  of these forms following the Song style.  Qing vessels of this form tend to be robust in size. Compare a vessel of similar form in a guan type glaze sold in these rooms 2nd May 1995, lot 100 and again 10th April 2006, lot 1614.