A CARVED 'CIZHOU' JAR MING DYNASTY

of baluster form rising from a gently flared foot to broad rounded shoulders and a straight neck, the sides carved through the light brown glaze to the buff body beneath, with a composite floral scroll with each flower head enclosing a single character forming the phrase Junzi ai cai (the gentleman loves wealth), below a keyfret band around the shoulders and ruyi lappets around the base

Birmingham Museum of Art, Birmingham, Alabama, 1988-2015 (on loan). 

The rim has three small polished chips, the largest approximately 2 cm and there is a small glaze frit. There is a slight indentation along the lute line about half way around the circumference of the jar. There is expected wear to the surface overall and it has likely been polished.
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.