with an ovoid body rising on a slightly splayed foot to a constricted mouthrim, flanked by a curved spout and a handle worked in the form of a dragon, the exterior of the body carved in low relief with a pair of kui dragons rendered in angular scrollwork and incised with key-fret motifs, between lappets enclosing shou characters and bats, the shoulder further depicted with three ram heads, the stone of an even white colour attractively highlighted with russet patches

The spout of the handle has been reduced. The teapot is otherwise in overall good condition with minute flakes to the edges with tiny sections lightly polished, including an approx. 0.3 cm section to the tip of one leaf on the exterior. There is a natural vein to the stone on the unillustrated side.
"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."