A Chinese Export Armorial Soup Tureen, Cover, and Stand Circa 1767-1769

en suite with the preceeding lots.

Gordon, 1977, color plate II

Cover – the raised stem linking the pomegranate to the leaves on the knop is restored and probably made up. Tureen – the gilding is rubbed on both handles and there is some minor fritting around the lower edges. Stand – there is some very, very minor fritting to the rim edge and the cavetto.
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.

This service was made for Arnoldus Adrianus van Tets and his second wife Wilhelmina Jacoba Hartingh. The van Tets family was very active overseas. Arnoldus Adrianus's father and grandfather worked in the East Indies and West Africa. Arnoldus Adrianus was born in Dordrecht, studied in Leiden University but left for Batavia in 1756, eventually becoming the delegate of the Zaken van den inlander or native affairs, and also the trustee of the hospitals in Batavia. This service was probably ordered around the time of Arnoldus Adiranus and Wilhelmina Jacoba Hartingh's wedding in Batavia in 1767, and it was likely delivered shortly before their return to the Netherlands in 1769. 

Kroes, 2007, p. 347, cat. no. 266 illustrates a soup plate from this service.