A LARGE CINNABAR LACQUER AND MOTHER-OF-PEARL INLAID DOUBLE-GOURD VASE QING DYNASTY, QIANLONG PERIOD

the auspicious form with slightly flattened sides, the edges articulated in plain narrow bands, the upper bulb set with a central medallion to either side enclosing a mother-of-pearl inlaid Da character on a gilt-lacquer ground and bordered by further mother-of-pearl, the lower bulb with a Ji character within similarly decorated medallions, all reserved against finely carved scrolling peony blooms and the bajixiang on a wan diaper ground 

Ariane Faye & Cie, Ariane Dandois, Paris, 1982.

There are several restorations to the body, including a restored break running through the lower bulb on one side with some associated minor losses. A few small losses to the mother-of-pearl inlay, and some small sections have been replaced. The rim and base re-lacquered, possibly restored as well. The surface with black staining.
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.

Vases of this somewhat flattened form are exceedingly rare as is the unusual addition of mother-of-pearl inlay. A vase of the same form and decoration but with the Da Ji characters in gilt metal on a blue enamel ground is in the Victoria and Albert Museum and illustrated in Edward F, Strange, Catalogue of Chinese Lacquer, London, 1925, cat. no. 33, pl. XV.