A RARE BLACK-GLAZED 'LION' PILLOW

modelled standing four-square with head raised and looking straight ahead, covered overall in a dark chocolate-brown glaze draining to a buff tone on the edges of the moulding

Bo Gyllensvard, Chinese Ceramics in the Carl Kempe Collection, Stockholm, 1964, pl. 274.

Chinese Ceramic Treasures. A Selection from the Ulricehamn East Asian Museum, Including the Carl Kempe Collection, Ulricehamn, 2002, pl. 484.

The pillow is in good overall condition with wear to the expected areas, primarily to the top surface where the glaze is crackled, slightly pitted and more matte than the other areas. Some minor chips to the lion's nose and right side of the mouth. The front left paw fluoresced when inspected under UV light, where there appears to have been repainting. A 4 cm firing flaw around the hind-right leg extends to a hairline crack along the side of the body. Old shallow chips to the bottom of the paw. Another firing crack between the front two legs, approximately 1.5 cm.
"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."