A RARE 'FAMILLE-VERTE' 'PRUNUS AND BAMBOO' VASE, MEIPING QING DYNASTY, KANGXI / YONGZHENG PERIOD

of baluster shape with a slender waisted section and prominent shoulder, surmounted by a short straight neck culminating in a lipped rim, finely painted with a boldly outlined tall and winding prunus tree exhibiting iron-red blooms, intertwined with bamboo picked out in green enamel, two magpies flutter nearby

Collection of Mrs. John E. Rovensky.
Sotheby's New York, 16th January 1957, lot 378.
Sotheby's New York, 5th December 1972, lot 292.

There is a half inch haircrack to the rim with an associated bruise crack running half an inch along the rim edge. There is a smokey gray colored area to the glaze on the foot rim, approx 1 ½ inches long, just visible in the catalogue illustration. There is some black speckling overall. Some minor wear and scratching to the enamels consistent with age.
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 magpie is a popular motif in Chinese arts, and its name xique is a pun for 'happiness'. Two magpies among bamboo and prunus is a symbol for double happiness for the bride and groom.