A RARE 'LONGQUAN' CELADON AND BISCUIT LANTERN MING DYNASTY, 15TH CENTURY

the ovoid body rising from a hexagonally footed base to a flaring foliate rim, carved, incised and pierced around the exterior with a broad band of Immortals in biscuit in a garden, all between lappet and wan bands and covered overall in a rich bluish-green glaze

With the exception of two 6cm., long hairline rim cracks, minor glaze firing imperfections and light surface scratches, this rare lantern is in very good overall 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. 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."

See a Longquan celadon lantern of related form, but the central openwork band decorated with a composite foliate scroll rather than biscuit figures as seen on the present vessel, illustrated in Longquan qingci, Beijing, 1966, pl. 64. Another closely related lantern, from the collection of Mrs. Norma Schofield, was sold at Christie's New York, 6th June 1985, lot 388; and one of the type but decorated with glazed figures was sold in our Hong Kong rooms, 3rd May 1994, lot 28.