A CLOISONNÉ ENAMEL BEAKER VASE, ZUN MING DYNASTY, 16TH CENTURY

the central bulbous section rising from a stepped flaring foot to a tall trumpet neck, set with notched gilt-bronze flanges at the sides, the central bulb and flared foot brightly decorated with wide bands of taotie masks, the neck with upright plantain leaves enclosing dissolved taotie masks between pairs of confronting kui dragons above and a band of stylised mythical beasts below, the foot encircled by a band of ruyi clouds alternating with bamboo leaves, the interior rim decorated with a wide band of undulating lotus scroll

The beaker vase has small areas of cracking, loss and restoration to the turquoise-blue enamel in particular to the edges of the rim and foot and to each side of the top section of the central knop, minor pitting and rubbing to the gilded decoration.
"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."