A RARE 'JUN' 'RUYI'-SHAPED PILLOW SONG / JIN DYNASTY

covered in a pale blue glaze mottled with creamy patches, the top with faint purple splashes, fitted in a yellow silk and brocade-covered stand. 2 pieces.

R. H. Macy & Co., Inc, New York (according to paper label)

Both the right hand and left hand edges of the top are restored - the restoration is old and discolored and extends approximately 4 inches along each edge, covering chips and losses. There are further smaller old restored chips to the remainder of the rim. There is a long, probably firing related crack running horizontally along the back of the pillow approximately 1 inch above the base, a further crack extends up from this one, approximately 2 1/2 inches on the left of the pierced hole. There is a three inch fine crack below the rim on the opposite side of the pillow. And a small filled area - probably covering glaze loss, on the far right side below the rim. The glaze on the upper surface is worn and there is some scratching to the glaze around the sides.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

'Jun' pillows are extremely unsual. For a pale blue-green-glazed example in the Percival David Foundation, also of ruyi-form see Stacey Pierson, Song Ceramics. Objects of Admiration, London, 2003, p. 113, no. 44.