A RARE WUCAI SQUARE 'GU' VASE MARK AND PERIOD OF WANLI

of squared section, supported on a splayed foot rising to a bulging mid-section surmounted by a broad everted mouth, the exterior brilliantly painted with square panels each enclosing a scholar beneath a tree, divided on the canted corners by sprays of lotus and between lingzhi fungus sprays, the neck with a striding dragon reaching its long limbs outwards towards a 'flaming pearl amidst scrolling clouds and flames, all above a key-fret band encircling the base, the interior with sprays of lingzhi crowned by trefoil leaves, the base inscribed with a six-character reign mark within double squares

Sotheby's London, 14th July 1981, lot 107.
Sotheby's Hong Kong, 2nd May 2005, lot 612.

As one can see from the catalogue photograph, there are a number of frits along the angled edges and the rim of this vase. Consequently, the mouth has been slightly ground down. There are also two short original firing flaws to the foot of the vase and the piece is quite warped, particularly at the mouth. The enamels are however brilliant and well preserved as accurately depicted in the catalogue photograph.
"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."

A closely related Wanli wucai vase, from the Idemitsu Museum of Art, Tokyo, is illustrated in Tôji taikei, vol. 43, Tokyo, 1960, pl. 85; another is included in Mayuyama, Seventy Years, vol.1, Tokyo, 1976, pl. 928; and a third from the Edward T. Chow collection was sold in these rooms, 19th May 1981, lot 434.