清十八世紀 德化白釉荔枝形蓋盒

modeled in the form of three conjoined ripe fruits, evenly arranged and centered by a knop in the form of a curling leafy stem, the stippled skin and foliage finely articulated (2)

Collection of Winston Frederick Churchill Guest.
Sotheby Parke Bernet, New York, 2nd December 1967, lot 31.

Blanc de Chine: Divine Images in Porcelain, China Institute Gallery, New York, 2002, cat. no. 11.

Liu Youzheng, Zhongguo Dehua Baici Yanjiu / Blanc de Chine, Beijing, 2007, col. pl. 49.

In overall good condition, with minor firing imperfections throughout including burst glaze bubbles. The bottom edge of the cover with an old, minute flake loss. With typical wear and minor surface abrasions typical for age and use.
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.

Compare two other Dehua 'lychee' vessels, one a Kangxi period lychee-form waterpot sold in our Hong Kong rooms 21st May 1985, lot 153; another an 18th century lychee-form dish illustrated in P.J. Donnelly, Blanc de Chine, London, 1969, pl. 44B.