the deity portrayed seated inside, with two guardians outside below two dragons trailing down from a lintel, a smaller figure in the alcove above and a turtle entwined with a snake representing the North at his feet, set on a waisted pedestal base, the platform glazed aubergine

There are chips to the four corners of the lower roof of the shrine and some smaller chips along the edges, some of which have been painted. The roof ridge terminals are replacements and one is chipped, and there is a minute chip to the tip of the finial. The dragon on the left has lost its head, and the gaurdian on the right of has lost part of his scarf. The turtle and snake are missing their heads, and the snake has a loss to its body. There are also two chips to the right side of the base, and a number of scattered firing cracks.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.