TWO BLUE AND WHITE 'MANDARIN DUCK' FORM WATER DROPPERS LATE MING DYNASTY

each modeled with the ducks swimming side by side, with a circular aperture on the back opening to the hollow bodies freely painted with plumage in shades of blue, the beak of one pierced to form a spout

The group on the left of the catalogue photo has a reconstructed base. There is a firing crack along the juncture where the two birds meet that goes through the rim at the back and ends at the breast on the front. There is a crack that extends from the base up to the wing of the bird, and another crack that extends from the base to the breast of the other bird. The group on the right has some fritting along the edge of the tails, minute chips to the tips of the beaks, glaze pulls and other characteristic firing issues common for this type. There is also some earth staining to the necks.
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.