A PAIR OF 'FAMILLE-ROSE' 'SOLDIER' VASES AND COVERS QING DYNASTY, QIANLONG PERIOD

each baluster body brightly enamelled with pairs of birds perched amidst rockwork issuing flowers, all between lotus-lappets at the base and an elaborate lambrequin collar, the waisted neck with quatrefoil landscape panels reserved on a prunus and cracked-ice ground, the domed cover similarly decorated with panels within lotus and ruyi bands

One vase has a circular area of repair approximately 27cm by 30cm to the side as seen in the catalogue photograph. There is also an associated 23cm hairline crack running vertically from this area. There is also some staining to the luting line in the centre of the vase and two small shallow chips to the rim, 8mm and 10mm respectively. The other vase is in good condition, but both have various iron-spots, pitting and scratches to the glaze. Both covers are missing the lion finials, which have left unglazed areas where they would have been. One cover has been repaired to one side and the other has a 10cm chip to the rim (3cm visible from the exterior) and also a 16cm repair in this area. It should also be borne in mind that the enamels are particularly bright and the design and execution of the decoration is to a very high standard.
"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 high level of craftsmanship was vital to produce such large vases, not only in the potting itself but also in managing the firing of the wood-fuelled kiln. These vases are notable for their finely composed and detailed designs that successfully occupy and enhance the elegant form. A vase of this size and related form and design, but with a lotus scroll band at the foot and flowering branches decorating the neck and cover which is surmounted by a Buddhist lion, from the Mrs. Dick Fitzgerald Collection, was sold in these rooms, 11^th May 1965, lot 65. Compare also a similarly composed and enamelled vase depicting flowering peony branches issuing from rockwork, from the Sir Phillip Sassoon Collection, illustrated in George C. Williamson, The Book of Famille-Rose, London, 1927, pl. LV11 (right).