TWO CHINESE POLYCHROME 'SWATOW' DISHES MING DYNASTY, 16TH / 17TH CENTURY

each painted in iron-red, blue and green, one with dragons and phoenix, the other with birds in panels around the rim.

The righthand dish in the catalogue illustration - The interior enamels are slightly rubbed. There appears to be three 1/4 in. rim chips, which are cover by a metal bound rim. The exterior has been fired with the glaze tearing creating a slightly uneven surface. There are three horizontal glaze tears, the longest 1 1/8 in. The lefthand dish in the catalogue illustration - The interior enamels are somewhat rubbed. There is fritting to the rim running approximately 3 1/2 in. There are three rim chips approximately 1 in., 1/2 in. and 1/4 in. There is a hairline crack running vertically down from the rim edge approximately 2 1/2 in. The exterior has been fired with the glaze tearing. There are scattered small burst air bubbles and minor glaze tears on the body and under the rim. There is kiln accretion adhering around the foot.
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.