A BLUE AND WHITE DISH FOR THE PORTUGUESE MARKET MING DYNASTY, WANLI PERIOD

the shallow rounded sides rising from a short tapering foot to a flaring everted rim, the interior painted in bright cobalt-blue tones with a butterfly hovering above two qilin amid floral blossom and lingzhi sprays, all encircled by pairs of fruiting peach sprays, the rim with pavillion and monastery design divided by floral sprays, Buddhist lions and figures under a canopy

The central medallion of the dish is fired unevenly with recessed and raised bumps. There is extensive fritting and nibbling along the edges of the rim of the dish, traces of kiln grit is evident both to the interior in the central medallion, and to the exterior along the footring. Extensive burst glaze bubbles are found across the surface of the dish, particularly in the recessed base with patches of unglazed areas showing the buff body.
"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."