AN ITALIAN MAIOLICA STORAGE JAR, PERHAPS CALABRIAN, GERACE, CIRCA 1615 |

painted with a portrait of a youth within a scrolling cartouche, the reverse with a panel named 'Mostarda', 'I A(?)',

In generally good appearance. Typical glaze loss to rim. Hairline crack to body to the left side in the portrait medallion. Some scattered areas of fine glaze crazing. A chip to footrim, measuring approximately 3.2cm. wide, and some small nibble chips.
"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."

'Mostarda' was a sweet tangy preparation of fruits, combined with mustard and honey or sugar. The surviving jars labelled for Mostarda are mostly of this large size suggesting that it was consumed in large quantities in 16th century Italy.