A Blue-Glazed Handled Vase, Cong Seal Mark and Period of Qianlong

of archaistic cong form, the tall rectangular body rising from a circular foot to a short cylindrical neck with a rounded rim, set on two parallel sides with a pair of elephant-head handles suspending thin fixed rings, covered overall save for the footrim with an unctuous deep cobalt-blue glaze thinning to a paler tone around the handles and along the edges, the base inscribed in underglaze blue with a six-character reign mark

An old Japanese collection since the 1960s.

There is a small flake to one ear and a glaze hairline to the other ear.
"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."

Another blue-glazed vase of this type was sold in our London rooms, 9th November 2011, lot 121.