modelled with its head thrust into the air, the tusks forming a double-spout, a tall cylindrical vase on its back forming the handle, its tasselled saddle cloth painted to both sides with a floret reserved on a diaper ground

This kendi is in general fairly good condition with the exception of two small areas of snout broken off, and several minor glaze chips to the body. There are some fitting to the mouth rim, and some expected scratches and surface wear.
"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."

A similar kendi was sold in these rooms, 13th May 2009, lot 181; and another, recovered from the Witte Leeuw (1613) cargo belonging to the Dutch East India Company, is illustrated in Jean Mudge, Chinese Export Porcelain in North America, 2000, p. 68, col. pl. 97. See also a group of seven kendi of this type included in Regina Krahl, Chinese Ceramics in the Topkapi Saray Museum, Istanbul, vol II, London 1986, pls. 1294-1295; and another example, from the Mottahedeh collection and exhibited at the Virginia Museum between 1981-82, at the China Institute of America in 1984, and at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, 1984-85, sold in our New York rooms, 19th October 2000, lot 78.