A MOULDED YAOZHOU CELADON EWER NORTHERN SONG – JIN DYNASTY |

the globular body rising from a splayed foot to a cylindrical neck, set with a long curved spout opposite a strap handle, the body divided into five lobes, each lobe moulded in high relief with either a seated figure or two boys at play

There are restoration to varying degree to the spout, the neck and the handle. With refiring to a different colour of glaze as visible on the catalogue photo.
"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."

The present ewer is highly unusual for its decoration, and no other example appears to be recorded. See an ewer of this form and typical floral design, sold in these rooms, 30th/31st May 2019, lot 305. For other Yaozhou wares with related applied figures, see a Northern Song dynasty stem lotus dish in the Shanghai Museum, published in Liu Liang-yu, A Survey of Chinese Ceramics, vol. 2: Sung Wares, Taipei, 1991, p. 97 top right.