A PAIR OF DOUCAI 'CHICKEN' CUPS QING DYNASTY, 18TH CENTURY

each finely potted with gently rounded sides rising from a recessed foot to a slightly flaring rim, delicately painted around the exterior with a cockerel and hen watching over their five small chicks, divided by branches of blossoming peony issuing from rockwork, all between a single line at the base and a double line at the rim, the base inscribed with an apocryphal four-character mark of Xuande

The two cups are in overall good condition with expected minor firing imperfections, including three tiny specks to the rim of one. The actual colour of the glaze is blueish-white, not yellow as showing on the photograph in the catalogue and the enamels much brighter compared to the illustration.
"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."