a 'Wucai' 'dragon and phoenix' bowl Daoguang Seal Mark and Period

of deep rounded form with a slightly flared mouth, crisply painted on the exterior with an iron-red and a green-enameled dragon, each in pursuit of 'flaming pearls', interspersed by two swooping phoenixes amidst foliate scrolls, all below a band of the bajixiang ('Eight Buddhist Emblems') and ruyi-head clouds at the rim, the central well of the interior with a medallion enclosing a further iron-red dragon

The bowl is in good overall condition and the enamels are crisp and strong. There is a 4 mm hairline crack and the rim and two small iron spots at the interior, with four very minor pinpricks on the rim.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Compare similar bowls sold in our London rooms, 9th June 2004, lot 213; at Christie's Singapore, 30th March 1997, lot 398; and Christie's New York, 27th November 1991, lot 411.