A BLUE AND WHITE 'WAVES AND FLOWERS' BOWL MARK AND PERIOD OF WANLI

the deep rounded sides supported on a slightly tapered foot, brightly decorated around the exterior in shaded tones of cobalt with a continuous scroll of lotus and another six-petalled bloom borne on a meandering leafy stem, between bands of wind-blown waves around the rim and foot, all divided by double-line borders, the interior similarly decorated with a central recessed medallion enclosing an unusual wave-crest motif reserved on whorls within a triple-line border, the inner rim surrounded by a composite floral scroll, the convex base inscribed in underglaze blue with a six-character reign mark within double circles

There are a few scattered tiny iron spots and pin-prick air bubbles in the glaze but apart from this the bowl is in overall good condition. There is a 1.5 cm. restored chip to the footring. There is a 1mm shallow minute flake to the outer mouth rim.
"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."

For the Xuande prototype of this rare design, see a bowl from the F. Gordon Morrill collection, sold Doyle, New York, 16th September 2003, lot 89.