A CARVED CELADON-GLAZED 'KUI DRAGON' JAR SEAL MARK AND PERIOD OF QIANLONG

of baluster form with high shoulders, finely carved with kui dragons in dynamic poses around the vessel, their highly stylised bodies studded with tiny bosses terminating in bifurcated tails, all set between a wan symbol band below the lipped rim and upright lotus petals around the foot, the glaze of a rich olive-green tone pooling in the recesses to accent the carving, the base with a six-character seal mark

The jar was restored from four broken pieces.
"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."

Carved with a marvellous matrix composed entirely of sinuous kui dragons, this vase follows in the Longquan celadon style made for the court during the early Ming dynasty. Compare two related baluster vases sold in our New York rooms, the first, 5th May 1979, lot 40, and the second, 6th November 1981, lot 306. For the prototype of this design see a vase decorated with striking dragons, from collection of Bo Ewer, sold in our London rooms, 24th July 1973, lot 56.