Very Large Chinese Export Porcelain Water Jug and Cover, Circa 1850

of pear shape with loop handle, painted with Chinese figures in landscape, reserved on a gilt vine ground, the cover decorated with two similarly reserved cartouches with flowers, the knop moulded as a blossom.

Elle Shushan, Augustus Decorative Arts, Limited, New York.

The knop has been restored back on and has overpainting to the exterior and the rims of the petals. There is a short haircrack to the edge of the rim of the cover, which has been restored (overpainted) on the upper surface. The jug handle has been broken off and pinned back on, with overpaint where it joins the body at top and bottom. Both painted panels have some scratching and minor flaking to the enamels, somewhat visible on the male figure in the catalogue photo and visible on both sides in the online images.
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.