well crafted with the shoulder gracefully curving to a square dome topped with an onion-shaped finial, painted in inky cobalt tones with curling vines issuing from the corners and sides of the shoulder and from the base of the finial, the finial painted blue with vertical white lines in reserve, all above a tapering base of circular form

In overall good condition with some expected light wear to the surface and minor firing imperfections, consistent with age and type.
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.

A cover of this form would have been used on a small square jar, such as the one in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum illustrated in William Bowyer Honey, The Ceramic Art of China and Other Countries of the Far East, London, 1945, pl. 93a. A jar of the same shape dating to the Yongle / Xuande period was sold in our Hong Kong rooms, 30th October 2002, lot 275.