A RARE ARMORIAL KENDI FOR THE DUTCH MARKET QING DYNASTY, CIRCA 1740-50

the globular body rising from a short straight foot to a tall narrow neck with flaring mouth, set to one side of the shoulder with a short mamiform spout, brightly enamelled and gilt to either side with a large coat-of-arms and helmet crest of De Heere

The kendi is in good overall condition with the exception of some overpainting to the top section of the neck and tip of the spout, minor firing imperfections including iron-spot glaze imperfections, and light glaze scratches.
"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 arms are those of the De Heere family of Middleburg and Dordrecht; for a discussion of these arms and a bowl from this service, see Christiaan J.A. Jorg, Chinese Ceramics in the Collection of the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam, 1997, p. 310, pl. 366. A bell-shaped mug with these arms was sold in our New York rooms, 23rd October 1992, lot 150; a dish was sold at Christie's London, 11th November 2003, lot 155; and a pair of dishes was sold at Christie's London, 23rd March 1987, lot 502.