A MATCHED PAIR OF BLUE AND WHITE BOTTLE VASES QING DYNASTY, KANGXI PERIOD

each of rounded globular form rising to a long slender neck, painted with three animated Buddhistic lions playing with brocade balls, below a band of peony heads on a diaper ground at the shoulder, below a qilong dragon chasing a flaming pearl amongst flame scrolls

These vivdly painted bottle vases are in very good overall condition with the exception of some very minor firing imperfections including iron-spot glaze imperfections, pinhead-sized glaze holes 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."

A very similar vase in the Victroria and Albert Museum is illustrated by S.W. Bushell, Chinese Art , London 1924, vol. II and again by W.B. Honey, Guide to Later Chinese Porcelain  London 1927, pl.34. Compare to a similar vase sold in our New York rooms on 18 September 1996, lot 205.