A BLUE AND WHITE RECTANGULAR 'DRAGON' BOX AND COVER WANLI MARK AND PERIOD

of rectangular form with indented corners supported on a short straight foot, the domed cover painted in brilliant underglaze cobalt-blue with a pair of confronting five-clawed dragons contesting a flaming pearl amid cloud swirls and above foaming waves crashing against rockwork, the sides painted with luxuriant lotus scrolls above a keyfret band, the lower portion similarly decorated with meandering leafy lotus scrolls below a keyfret border, the base inscribed with a six-character Wanli mark within a double rectangle; together with another similar cover

The box shows signs of restoration and re-painting in two areas (circa 2.5 x 5cm), one on the long side and one on the short side, from top to bottom of the box. There are minute glaze chips and burst air bubbles on the surface of the box which has been fired orange revealing the buff body underneath. Minor scratches, glaze cracks and firing cracks are also visible across the surface. The alternative cover has some irregularities to the underglaze blue decoration, including a circa 23.5cm white line running horizontally across the lotus scroll decoration.
"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."