明永樂 青花「纏枝花卉」紋淨水盌

originally a blue and white tankard, now with a truncated neck and removed handle, the globular body supported on a footless countersunk base, freely painted around the exterior in deep cobalt tones accented by 'heaping and piling' with a continuous scroll of star-shaped flowers with feathery petals and attendant buds wreathed by serrated and curling leaves, between a 'classic' scroll encircling the foot and a band of key-fret within double lines collaring the shoulder, the rim and footring unglazed

 

The orginal handle has been removed with a trace of its original position (now unglazed and polished down), visible only on the exterior (approx. 3x4 cm). The rounded rim has also been polished down and there is a 1.7 cm restored chip to it. There are some light scratches to the surface and some wear on the underside around the footring.
"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."