A RARE BLUE AND WHITE 'DRAGON' BOX AND COVER MARK AND PERIOD OF JIAJING |

of circular form, supported on a short splayed foot, the domed cover boldly painted in rich cobalt-blue tones with a central medallion enclosing two five-clawed dragons, their sinuous scaly bodies writhing amidst stylised cloud clusters, all encircled by a wide band of further cloud scrolls, the curved sides of the box decorated with two further dragons striding amid scrolling clouds in pursuit of flaming pearls, the base inscribed with a six-character reign mark within a double circle

Sotheby's London, 2nd June 1970, lot 60.

There is a 10.3cm crack to the centre of cover, and another 10.2cm C-shaped crack to the base with a 0.8cm Y-branch. The rims with some minute flakes and shallow chips (max. 1.5cm wide). Some minor firing imperfections including a short body line to the outer rim of the cover and surface wear.
"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."

Sturdily potted, the present covered box is painted with powerful dragons amidst scrolling clouds in vibrant cobalt blue, characteristic of ceramics wares made during the Jiajing period. Blue and white circular boxes painted with dragons are not uncommon in this reign, but those painted with a pair of confronting dragons on the cover, such as the current lot, are surprisingly rare. For the more common type with a single dragon, see an example sold in our London rooms, 10th November 2010, lot 54. See also a square box with confronting dragons striding above jagged rockwork and waves, sold in these rooms, 11th April 2008, lot 2938.