A FINE AND RARE 'YAOZHOU' LAMP SONG DYNASTY

the body of pear shape raised on a high spreading stepped foot, carved in high relief around the lower body with four large lotus petals divided by smaller pierced petals, the main body freely and finely carved with a broad leafy band of undulating fruiting grapevine, covered overall in an olive-green glaze save for a narrow band at the rim

This rare lamp is in very good overall condition with the exception of a 2cm., long firing line running down from the interior of the rim, four small drilled holes at the lower body, a slightly unevenly shaped mouth 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 pear-shaped form of the present lamp is unusual while the scrolling grapevine and floral motif make this piece particularly rare. The lower body of the vessel together with the raised foot is reminiscent of an incense burner of this same form, from the Yaozhou Ware Museum, included in the exhibition The Masterpieces of Yaozhou Ware, Yamaguchi Kenritsu Hagi Bijutsukan, Yamaguchi, 1997, cat. no. 80.