A BLUE AND WHITE DOUBLE GOURD VASE MING DYNASTY, 16TH CENTURY

the lower lobe painted with a continuous scene of Immortals in a fenced garden with a crane below a band of flower heads on a diaper ground to the waisted middle, the upper lobe similarly painted with Immortals including Shoulao and Liu Hai on his toad amongst breaking waves

This rare vase is in good overall condition with the exception of restoration to the short neck, a 10 x 2mm., area of glaze flakes and rubbing to the shoulder of the upper bulb, light fritting around the edge of the footring, minor glaze firing imprefections including iron spots and several burst glaze bubbles, and light glaze scratches.
"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."