A DOUCAI 'LOTUS' BOX AND COVER EARLY 18TH CENTURY

of circular form, the slightly domed cover painted in bright enamels within an underglaze-blue outline with a central medallion enclosing an iron-red lotus spray amid stylised leafy scrolls, all encircled by a band of five aubergine, yellow and iron-red lotus blooms on meandering leafy scrolls, the decoration repeated on the steep sides of the box, the base inscribed with an apocryphal six-character Chenghua mark within a double circle

There are two cracks to the rim of the box (one 10mm the other 13mm). There is also two small (3mm) chips to the interior rim of the box. There is a 6.5cm glaze crackto the interior of the cover and some pin hole sized burst bubbles to the glaze.
"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."