A PAIR OF 'DAYAZHAI' LAVENDER BLUE-GROUND 'GRISAILLE'-DECORATED NARCISSUS TRAYS QING DYNASTY, GUANGXU PERIOD YONG QING CHANG CHUN MARK

of shallow rectangular form, each finely painted to the exterior in grisaille of fluttering bees among a garden of flowers, including pinks and magnolia, one of the sides inscribed dayazhai with an oval seal mark enclosing tian di yi jia chun ('heaven and earth enjoying spring as one'), reserved on a lavender-blue ground, the flattened rim decorated with a blue-enamel keyfret design, the interior glazed turquoise, all supported on bracket feet at the lobed corners, an iron-red yong qing chang chun ('eternal celebration of everlasting spring') mark on the base, wood stands (4)

The interiors of both have wear and limescale as a result of use as jardinieres. One has 1 1/2 inch area of restoration and repainting to the rim on the middle on one long side, and 1 inch of restoration and repainting to the rim immediately opposite. The restoration does not appear on the exterior but it is repainted on the interior. Both have areas of restoration along the inner rim edges presumably covering old and small chips. Both have very small flakes to the turquoise enamel surfaces. One of the feet has a very shallow chip to the foot. In otherwise 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.

See a pair of lavender blue-ground narcissus trays, with famille-rose decoration and in the shape of fans, sold at Christie's Hong Kong, 3rd December 2008, lot 2202.