each with rounded sides rising from a tapered foot to a flared rim, decorated in the 'boneless' technique with two roses each at a different phase of bloom and a butterfly fluttering above, the stems painted in shades of yellowish and bluish green

Collection of Zhu Shennong (1894-1962) and thence by descent in the family.

There is expected minute nibbling to the feet and one shallow 0.2 cm flake to one rim.
"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."

Zhu Shennong (1894-1962), a native of Jiangyang in Jiangsu province, was a ninth-generation practitioner of Chinese medicine. Renowned for his groundbreaking discoveries on renal health and Xiayang zheng, he also published the seminal Xiayangzheng zhi. His collection of Chinese art had a predominant focus on Qing porcelains.  Painted in a technique known as the 'boneless style' for its virtually skeleton and outline-free design, the only lines incorporated into the composition are the black lines used to define the veins on the leaves and butterflies. It represented a great challenge to the artists as lesser-skilled painters would require outlines to complete their sections of decoration, and if not handled correctly it would give the impression that the piece was unfinished.

See two larger pairs of 'boneless' dishes, painted with roses and asters, but lacking the butterflies: one pair, sold in our London rooms, 11 May 2011, lot 281, and again at Christie's New York, 22nd/23rd March 2018, lot 818; and another pair, sold at Christie's New York, 18th/19th September 2014, lot 961. Compare also a pair of 'boneless' cups sold in these rooms, 6th April 2016, lot 3619.