the deep rounded sides rising from a short foot to an everted rim, faintly incised to the interior with a central medallion enclosing fruiting and flowering branches of finger citron, prunus and pine, all encircled by a ruyi band repeated at the rim, the exterior gently inscribed with an imperial poem entitled Sanqing Cha ('Three Purity Tea'), followed by a cyclical date Qianlong bingyin (in accordance with 1746) and two seals of the emperor, the rim and the foot encircled by ruyi bands in low relief, similarly decorated at the domed cover, the base of the bowl and top of the cover incised with a six-character seal mark

The bowl and cover is in overall good condition. Sections of the rims have been slightly polished, including the inner rim of the knob, the mouth and foot of the bowl, probably to conceal some minute nicks. There are also occasional expected nicks to the extremities. The stones have some natural inclusions and veinings.
"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."