TWO CIZHOU 'LOTUS' PILLOWS SONG DYNASTY |

the first carved through the white slip with a pair of mandarin ducks and a fish in a lotus pond; the other carved in a brown slip with lotuses and a lotus pod

There is a restoration to the upper left top edge of the mandarin ducks pillow (showing on the illustration in the catalogue), otherwise the pillow is generally in good condition. There is small polished patches to the back edge and around the body of the other lotus pillow (showing on the right side on the catalogue illustration). These are also applied with some old varnish showing under UV, most likely to conceal grits ‎or secure fritting.
"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 related Northern Song dynasty pillow, decorated with a large furled lotus leaf and bloom, was exhibited in Chinese Ceramic Pillows: the Mr. & Mrs. Yeung Wing Tak Gift, Museum of the Western Han Tomb of the Nanyue King, Guangzhou, 1993, cat. no. 50.