A RARE CARVED DING-TYPE 'FLORAL' BOX AND COVER SONG DYNASTY |

of circular section, the box with straight sides and a tapered lower body supported on a short foot, applied below the rim with two raised bosses to one side, the gently domed freely carved with a flower spray, similarly decorated with a raised boss to one side, applied overall save for the footring with a clear ivory-tinged glaze

Tai Sing Fine Antiques Ltd., Hong Kong, 11th March 2000.

In good condition, with only a shallow foot chip (1.5cm wide) and some minute flakes along the rims, as expected of use. Minor glaze firing imperfections.
"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."

Incised with a single daylily among scrolling leaves, the present box represents a superb and spirited example of its type, demonstrating the excellent carving skill of the artisan. Originating in the late Northern Song dynasty, this attractive design of a daylily became popular in the early Jin dynasty and was often found on excavated vessels from Jin dynasty cellars and tombs. Ding dishes similarly incised with the daylily motif were unearthed from the Ding kiln site in Hebei. Compare also a Song – Jin dynasty dish incised with a daylily on the interior, sold in these rooms, 5th April 2016, lot 2832.