A CARVED CELADON JADE EWER AND COVER MING DYNASTY, 17TH CENTURY

worked from a single block of greenish stone with natural russet inclusions, the waisted body of baluster form with foliate sides rising from a slightly flaring base to high angled shoulders and a short neck, each side carved in low relief calligraphy with a poetic inscription in running script, the S-shape handle surmounted by a phoenix perched on a branch of bamboo, its plumage extending down along the edge, opposite a short spout stretching upward and decorated with two clambering chilong, the tightly fitting cover incised with ruyi heads lappets above a key-fret border repeating itself around the mouth rim

Acquired in Paris between the 1970s and the early 90s.

The knob and a 5 x 4 cm section of the lid are chipped and missing. There is a long secured crack running vertically in front of the ewer and extending all around the right side of the spout, some further natural veining to the body. There are a few nicks and nibbling along the edges.
"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."