A LARGE BLUE AND WHITE 'FISH' BOWL MARK AND PERIOD OF WANLI

well potted with deep curved sides rising from a slightly tapered foot flaring to an everted rim, painted in vivid tones of cobalt blue, the interior centred with a medallion enclosing a pair of cranes flying amongst scrolling clouds within a ring of ruyi heads, all bound by a border with further cranes in flight alternating with wisps of clouds around the rim, the exterior decorated with a wide frieze of four large fish swimming amidst smaller fish, algae and water weed, the foot skirted with a band of upright petals lappets, the countersunk base inscribed in underglaze blue with a six-character reign mark

Christie's London, 10th June 1996, lot 84.

The rim has a curved hairline crack of 16 cm, which has been stabilised with glue. There is an adjacent hairline crack of 3.7 cm from the rim with a small area of losses (0.8 cm) which has been refilled and retouched with paint. There is a long firing crack across the base passing through the reign mark. The bowl also has some surface wear and scratches. The profile is slightly warped.
"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."