A painted enamel abstinence plaque
Qing dynasty, 18th century

of flattened double gourd form, inscribed in blue on one side with the characters zhai jie, the reverse inscribed in Manchu, the inscriptions within a trailing gourd vine bearing flowers and fruit in white and green and with two pinkish-red bats in flight, all reserved on the pale green ground within a plain bronze border, attached orange silk tassel
6.5 cm long

Provenance

The Rende Zhai Collection, acquired 1949-1970s
Christie's, New York, 15 September 2011, lot 1213
Private Collection Sydney

Show Catalogue Notes

Condition Report

On the side with Manchu inscription some very fine hairline cracks across the waist area, a small repair to the edge at lower left approx 0.5 cm, a very small indent to enamel to the right side of the inscription. Both with minor imperfections around the edges and minor surface wear consistent with age

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 Australia is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Saleroom Notices regarding this sale. NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS.