A LARGE BLUE AND WHITE 'CRANE' DISH MING DYNASTY, JIAJING PERIOD

the deep rounded flaring sides rising from a short tapering foot, painted in rich cobalt-blue tones to the interior with a medallion enclosing five cranes in flight amidst ruyi-shaped clouds, the exterior with fish swimming amidst lotus

Collection of Sir Alfred Chester Beatty.

There is a 22cm crack to the interior and numerous surface scratches to the glaze to the interior base. The exterior base has been cleaned and there is some more minor glaze crawling to the exterior where the foot meets the base of the dish. There are also some burst bubbles and iron spots to the glaze to the interior.
"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."

For a similar example, see one illustrated in Regina Krahl, Chinese Ceramics in the Topkapi Saray Museum, Istanbul, vol. 2, London, 1986, pl. 925.