A BLUE AND WHITE 'CARP' BOWL MARK AND PERIOD OF WANLI

well potted with deep rounded sides rising to an everted rim, painted on the exterior in vivid cobalt-blue with four carp frolicking in a lotus pond, depicted in various poses swimming amidst water weeds and lotus, all above a band of ruyi heads and below double-lines borders at the rim, the interior with a central medallion enclosing a further fish with double-line borders repeated at the rim, the base inscribed with the six-character mark within a double-circle 

A Private Japanese Collection.

There is a small rim chip of approx 0.2 by 0.2 cm which has been filled in, and an associated hairline of approx 0.9cm down from the rim. There is a second short hairline crack extending down from the rim of approx 1.8cm. There are two circular collector's marks on the base which have been filled in.
"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."