A PAIR OF 'DING' HEXALOBED SAUCER DISHES NORTHERN SONG DYNASTY

each of shallow form with flared petal-shaped sides, applied overall with a clear ivory glaze, pooling in characteristic 'tear drops' on the exterior, the base unglazed (2)

Edward T. Chow Collection.
Sotheby's London, 16th December 1980, lot 247.

Both in overall good condition. One has a more matt glaze than the other, and is slightly more ivory toned. The other one is more heavily potted.
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.

The Dingzhou kilns have been identified at Quyang in Ding county, Hebei province. Characteristic pieces are thinly potted, with a fine white body which does not require a slip to appear white after firing, and an ivory-colored glaze which tends to run down in somewhat darker 'tears'.

Compare a similarly shaped, larger dish illustrated in Regina Krahl, Chinese Ceramics from the Meiyintang Collection, vol.1, London, 1994, pl. 347; and another included in Michael Sullivan, Chinese Ceramics, Bronzes and Jades in the Collection of Sir Alan and Lady Barlow, London, 1963, pl. 42b. A pair of larger dishes from the Kempe collection was sold recently in our London rooms, 14th May 2008, lot 237.