A CARVED QINGBAI 'FLORAL' MEIPING SONG DYNASTY

well potted with an elongated ovoid body rising to a broad rounded shoulder and surmounted by a sloping neck set with a cupped mouth, the body moulded and carved with a dense design of luxuriant floral blooms borne on scrolling stems, covered overall in a translucent pale blue glaze pooling to darker tones within the carved recesses, falling short of the unglazed foot revealing the off-white coloured biscuit

The vase is in overall good condition. There are some minor firing imperfections including faint iron-spots, burst bubbles and a small firing crack approx. 0.5 cm below the neck. The surface with some signs of wear and scratches consistent with age and use.
"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."

A closely related meiping, in the Idemitsu Museum of Art, Tokyo, is illustrated in Chinese Ceramics in the Idemitsu Collection, Tokyo, 1987, pl. 423; another was sold in our New York rooms, 3rd June 1992, lot 205; a slightly smaller example in the British Museum, London, is illustrated in Jan Wirgin, Sung Ceramic Design, Stockholm, 1970, pl. 22e; and another with its matching cover is published in Regina Krahl, Chinese Ceramics from the Meiyintang Collection, vol. 1, London, 1994, pl. 606. See also a larger example in the Palace Museum, Beijing, illustrated in The Complete Collection of Treasures in the Palace Museum. Porcelain of the Song Dynasty (III), Hong Kong, 1996, pl. 167.