A pair of Japanese Arita baluster vases Meiji/Taisho period

the rounded sides of each rising to a cylindrical neck and flared bracket-lobed rim,  with two figures sprigg-moulded to each side and painted within shaped panels of birds amongst prunus and chrysanthemum in a garden, on a dense ground of peony, prunus and ho-o

Both vases have small flakes to the extremities of the rim, with enamel rubbing and scratches around the body and the the black enamel and gilding. The lacquered panels are later added: one vase has loss to the whole sleeve of one figure and further damage to the panel, possibly due to water damage as seen in the associated cracks running under, and additional cracks and flakes around edges of the panels. The vase has a hairline crack running halfway around the base of the neck where the neck and body have been joined. The other vase has a hairline crack running around the vase where the neck has been joined to the body, with minor associated enamel flakes, the largest 8mm. There is a loss of lacquered decoration on one panel (15cm x 12cm) to reveal the original enamelled deoration beneath.
"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."