AN IRON-RED AND UNDERGLAZE-BLUE 'DRAGON' MOONFLASK SEAL MARK AND PERIOD OF QIANLONG

of flattened globular form supported on a short splayed foot and surmounted by a small bulbous neck, set with two ruyi-shaped handles, each side vividly painted in underglaze blue and shades of iron-red with an en face five-clawed dragon writhing among clouds, finely detailed with a fierce expression, powerful scaly body, and outstretched limbs in a ferocious pose, between four bats hovering around the foot and two shou medallions painted on each side of the neck, the clouds and handles picked out with gold details, the slightly recessed base with a four-character iron-red seal mark inscribed in a white cartouche against a turquoise ground

There is a 1 cm chip at the foot rim, a 1.5 cm shrinkage in the glaze near the mouthrim, some wear to the overglaze enamel, but overall the vase is in 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."