A RARE BLUE AND WHITE EWER MING DYNASTY, EARLY 16TH CENTURY

of Islamic metalware form, the lobed octagonal globular body rising from a short straight foot to a short flaring neck with everted straight rim, set to one side with an elegant S-shaped spout secured by an S-shaped strut and to the other with a strap handle, painted to each lobe with composite leafy flower sprays below a cloud collar and stiff leaf band at the neck , the base with apocryphal Xuande mark

With the exception of a 0.7cm rim chip; two hairline cracks extending down from the rim (approx. 2cm, 1cm); a hairline crack across the width of the strut; a small chip to the tip of the embellishment of the strut; a small chip (approx. 0.3cm) to the rim of the spout; two small chips to two ribs (approx. 0.2mm each); two firing cracks to the body (approx. 1cm, 2cm); light firing lines to the body; minor fritting to the rim of the neck, collar and ribs of the body; minor glaze firing imperfections and light glaze scratches, this ewer is 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. 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."