A FINE PAIR OF INSCRIBED BLUE AND WHITE 'TEA-POEM' TRAYS SEAL MARKS AND PERIOD OF JIAQING

each with shallow lobed sides of quatrefoil section, resting on four small incurved feet, finely decorated on the interior with a quatrefoil panel enclosing an imperial poem pertaining to the preparation of the tea, set within a band of scrolling lotus and florets repeated on the interior and the exterior of the walls with a variation on the central bloom, the white base inscribed with a six-character seal mark in underglaze blue and surrounded by spur-marks

Both trays are in very good condition.
"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."

The imperial poem inscribed on the interior of the dish is dated to the year Jiaqing dingsi, corresponding to 1797. Written by the Emperor Jiaqing, this poem, as translated by Stephen W. Bushell  in Oriental Ceramic Art, London, 1981, p. 239, praises and advises on the proper preparation of good tea.