A CHINESE EXPORT FAMILLE-VERTE TUREEN AND A COVER circa 1720

colorfully painted on either side of the tureen with a flowering branch of peony and at each end beneath the iron-red and gilt cloud scroll handle with a phoenix, the rim with a stippled green-ground band painted with phoenix and flowers, the interior painted in the center with a large phoenix above flowering peony and further sprays around the sides, and the cover similarly decorated with flowering plants beneath the knop formed as a cockerel.

Although the pattern of the cover differs from that of the tureen and the painting is by a different hand, it is a good match and fits the tureen very well. The blue enamel on the cover has misfired on some of the leaves and along the birds' tails and the comb of the cockeral knop is chipped away. Apart from this and some minor fritting on the rim edge, both are in good condition.
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.

A pair of similarly decorated tureens and covers were sold at Sotheby's, Monaco, March 4, 1990, lot 388.