A RARE UNDERGLAZE BLUE AND COPPER RED 'DRAGON' BASIN QING DYNASTY, 18TH/19TH CENTURY

of globular form, with deep rounded sides rising from a countersunk base with a short, straight neck, vibrantly painted with four striding dragons and numerous bats in flight reserved on a copper-red ground of overlapping waves, framed above and below by ruyi head borders, the shoulder with a diaper band and a fish roe border at the neck

Acquired in the 19th century and thence by descent.

One side of the body has a zig-zag shaped crack running from the rim to just above the base, visible on both sides and with associated chips. The body has a four-point star crack, the longest branch measuring approx. 2cm from the interior. The base has a five-point star crack visible from both sides, the longest branch measuring 7cm. There is a 3.5cm crack near this area, and extensive grit adhesion. The exterior base with a firing crack running along the sides of the foot. The interior base with another star crack. There are deep vertical scratches on the exterior. Glaze firing imperfections include burst glaze bubbles, short discoloured firing cracks (seen particularly on the interior) and iron spots.
"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."