A LARGE AND RARE LIME-GREEN GROUND 'FAMILLE-ROSE' BASIN SEAL MARK AND PERIOD OF QIANLONG

the deep rounded sides rising from a flat base to a broad everted flaring rim, delicately and brightly enamelled to the interior with a central lotus medallion encircled by four large lotus blooms divided by gourd-shaped leafy strapwork panels, the sides, gilt-edged rim and exterior similarly enamelled and all reserved on a rich even lime-green ground, the six-character seal mark written in iron-red on the base

This is in good condition with very strong enamels. The gilding on the rim remains in good condition. The interior is slightly dry. Some minor and expected wear to the enamels on the exterior. The colors are less dark than the catalogue image suggests.
"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 vessel is a showpiece for the wide range of colours used by the artist and also a fine example of the very high level of enamelling technique achieved by the Qianlong period. Although the design appears to be rather complex it is well balanced and pleasing to the eye.

Lime-green ground basins with famille-rose decoration are very rare, however a large famille-rose basin of similar shape decorated with peaches and bats was sold in these rooms 7th May 2002, lot 533. The base on the famille-rose example was unmarked and enamelled with small repeated motifs, in that case florets, to conceal the spurmarks. The quality of the enamelling on both basins, as well as the designs clearly drawn from the Imperial repertoire, both strongly suggest that they were used at the court. See also an unusual example of a doucai  basin with famille-rose combined, sold in these rooms 2nd May 2005, lot 605.