A large blue and white charger for the Islamic market, Jingdezhen, China, 17th century

of round open form, decorated in underglaze blue with large swirling flowers on leafy stems, the cavetto with a similar design and rim with a stylised geometric band, the exterior with swooshing bamboo branches,

In good condition, intact, some abrasion to external edge with very minor chips, some scratches to external surface, as viewed.
"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."

This impressive charger features a decorative design that includes inherently Chinese elements fused with a hint of foreign influence, notably in the rim border comprising a row of reduced petal panels. The reverse features clusters of bamboo shoots.  

The decorative technique employed on this dish combines painted elements with careful scratching through the pigment. The layer of still-wet paint is scratched with a fine point instrument to reveal the white body beneath, demonstrating the Chinese artist's inventiveness.

For further examples of similar seventeenth-century Chinese blue-and-white wares now in the Topkapi Saray Museum, see Krahl 1986. A related dish sold in these rooms, Fine Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art, 16 May 2012, lot 104.