each well-modeled as a hot-air balloon tethered to a gondola, the prow rising and curving to form the spout, the stern curling inwards and forming the handle, all raised on a pierced, wave-form base, stopper (3)

Each with scattered minor firing imperfections including minor areas of compression to the globular 'ballons'. With light surface wear and each with numerous small hairline cracks below the mouth rim and around the spout lip. The stopper with wear typical of age and use, and old chips to the bottom edge.
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.

In 1783 in France, two brothers, Joseph-Michel and Jacques-Étienne Montgolfier, successfully launched the world's first hot-air balloon, designed by Joseph-Michel. The invention of the first human-piloted flight quickly sparked interest throughout Europe.

Compare three similar examples, one sold at Christie's New York, 30th March 2005, lot 380; another illustrated in Robert H. Blumenfield, Blanc de Chine: The Great Porcelain of Dehua, Berkeley, 2002, pl. 81A; the third in P.J. Donnelly, Blanc de Chine, London, 1969, pl.♔ 128B, from the author's coll🐻ection.