An impressive blue and white 'Three Friends' jar Wanli mark and period

of baluster form, the sides painted in deep cobalt blue with pine, prunus and bamboo rising from the base with birds in flight among trailing clouds above, all between a band of lappets at the base, and the shoulders with a band of floral vignettes reserved on a ground of wan diaper, a foliate scroll around the short wide tapering mouth, the base inscribed in underglaze blue with a six-character mark
41 cm high

• Lot Sold $55,000 (Hammer Price)
• $67,100 (Hammer Price with Buyer's Premium)

Provenance

Sotheby's Australia, Melbourne, 27 October 2009, lot 134

Condition Report

The vase has been professionally restored. Previously there was a repaired break running around the body below the shoulders, the mouth with a small section approx 4 cm broken off and replaced from which cracks ran to either side around the base of the mouth, one approx 4.5 cm the other approx 8 cm and another hairline crack curving down around the shoulder, a chip approx 3 cm on the interior of the vase infilled, the base with a chip on the exterior edge approx 3 cm. This damage is no longer visible. There are some surface scratches and wear.

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 Australia is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Saleroom Notices regarding this sale. NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS.