A METAL MOUNTED WUCAI BEAKER VASE MING DYNASTY, WANLI PERIOD

of square section probably derived from the archaic bronze fanggu form, decorated overall in wucai enamels, the central bulb set with four moulded lion masks flanked by two confronting dragons leaping from waves, the rounded shoulder with sinuous pacing dragons, the waisted neck detached and mounted with metal to form a separable container, all above a wide waisted trunk with alternating leaping and descending five-clawed dragons in contrasting red, yellow, aubergine, green and underglaze blue amid flowers and waves flaring to a moulded shaped false apron at the foot with leafy lingzhi scrolls, the vase reduced and altered with various metal structures to form a lamp

The vase has been cut such that a large portion of the original neck is missing, the remaining portion is trimmed and left with truncated dragon designs and then mounted with various metal structures to form a lamp. There are heavy signs of restoration particularly to one of the lion masks where exposed plaster and repainting are evident. Patches of enamel loss are found on the other lion masks. There is a long crack running along the base of the waisted trunk. The vase has extensive wear to the enamels and horizontal surface scratching is particularly visible on the rounded shoulders and waisted neck of the vase. There are also glaze firing imperfections including iron spots and burst glaze bubbles.
"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."