A DOUCAI SAUCER DISH QIANLONG SEAL MARK AND PERIOD

with a shallow rounded form, the interior enameled in a rich doucai palette with two cranes carrying tallies in their beaks soaring amid auspicious clouds above a pavilion rising from crested waves, along the rim a band of ruyi heads, the exterior vibrantly painted with bats, peaches, and lotus scroll, the base with a six-character seal mark in underglaze blue

The dish with three restored chips to the rim, four hairline cracks extending downward from the rim (three are short, and the fourth is approx. 3/4 in.), and one small frit to the interior. Minor firing imperfections throughout and expected wear to the footring.
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.

The motif of a crane carrying a counter over a seaborne pavilion is a rebus expressing a wish for longevity (haiwu tianchou). Thematic precedents in porcelain date to the Yongzheng period, including a dish illustrated in the revised Sekai Toji Zenshu, vol. 15, pl. 191. Qianlong era doucai saucer dishes with this motif sold at Christie's New York, 13th/14th September 2012, lot 2580; and thrice in our Hong Kong rooms, 14th November 1989, lot 232; 18th May 1982, lot 372; and 20th May 1981, lot 828.