A fine pair of small doucai wine cups Qing Dynasty, Kangxi period

of conical form set on a short tapering foot, painted on the interior with half of a phoenix and bamboo shoots extending over the lip and on to the exterior with the tail of the phoenix and further bamboo, the base inscribed with a five-character mark in a double square in underglaze blue Yu ci chun yi tang ('given by the Emperor to the Hall of Simple Purity')

Irene Dreyfus Collection, Germany.

The overall condition of the pair is excellent, except for a burst air bubble to the rim of one cup. There is also a small iron spot to the base of that cup. Almost all of the enamelling on the cups is well preserved.
"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."