A rare early Worcester mug, circa 1752-53,

of baluster shape, enamelled in Chinese style with a tall slender 'Long Eliza' figure, standing with a parasol in a fenced garden, the 'Willow Root' motif to the right, a sailing ship to the reverse,

No visible damage. There is some light sanding inside and outside the neckrim and folded footrim, and a little very light sanding to the body externally.
"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."

For a discussion of this, the earliest mug shape and similar polychrome decoration at the Worcester factory, see Simon Spero, Lund's Bristol and Early Worcester Porcelain 1750-58, p. 93-94, p. 174 and p. 176.  The baluster shape, handle with thumbrest and folded foot, all derive from a silver prototype of the 1740s.  The pattern also occurs in blue and white, although without the delicate details made possible by the use of overglaze enamels.   These features, together with the creamy paste, distinctive palette and evidence of sanding around the rims place this mug in a particular class of very early productions by the factory.