A pair of Jacob Petit asparagus tureens, covers and fixed stands mid-19th century

each modelled as a large bundle of asparagus tied at each end, resting on a bed of leaves and applied with onions, garlic and other small vegetables, one with double crossed swords and dot mark in underglaze-blue.

The one on the right in catalogue illustration: The cover: There is a tiny chip to the end of one asparagus, issuing an approximate 1-inch haircrack. There is an approximate 1/2-inch flat chip to the rim edge on one side, which has been glazed over and is possibly firing-related. There are further six small chips of varying sizes (up to 1/8-inch) on both sides to the rim edge and a few other very minuscule chips to the interior rim edge. The tip of one asparagus has been chipped on several places, as also seen in the catalogue illustration. The tureen and fixed stand: There is a pinhead chip to the edge of one corner in the back and several very minor, minuscule chips to the edge of the rim on both sides. There is an approximate 1/2-inch chip to the tip of one asparagus in the front. There are three very fine 2-inch long curving haircracks, two towards the back of the tureen and one near the center, which are not visible from the exterior. There are two small chips to the footrim. The one on the left in catalogue illustration: The cover: One asparagus on the very far end at the edge has restoration and overspray covering an area measuring approximately 5-6 inches, possibly covering a chip; the overspray extends entirely to the interior of the cover and the exact nature of the condition issue is not apparent. There are very few minuscule chips to the rim edge on both sides. There is some very minor wear to the enamels on the vegetable-form knop; the big onion has an area, where there appears to be some retouching to the enamels, possibly covering flakings to the enamel, which has slightly discolored. The tureen and fixed stand: There is a restored 1 1/2-inch rim chip to the flange of the cover; the interior of the cover is entirely oversprayed, obscuring any possible condition issues. Otherwise in good condition.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

A similar pair of tureens, with crossed swords and JP marks, from the collection of Dorothy Hirshon, was sold in these rooms, September 26, 1998, lot 293.