A RARE YELLOW-GROUND CANTON ENAMEL EGG-FORM BOX AND COVER QING DYNASTY, 18TH / 19TH CENTURY |

the tapering lower section finely painted with two scholars, one standing with a fan, the other, the Tang poet Li Bai resting by a wine jar, separated by two rectangular panels enclosing poetic inscriptions, the hinged high-domed cover with two figures, a fisherman and nearby attendant with a basket, divided by fruit-form reserves enclosing further inscriptions, all against a rich yellow ground, the interior white-enameled, the gilt-copper rims incised with foliate motifs, a small aperture below the metal catch

Chinese Painted Enamels, Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, England, 1978, cat. no. 113.
Oriental Works of Art, Gerard Hawthorn Ltd., London, 2005, cat. no. 67.

There are expected craze lines to the enamels, particularly from the rims and to the interior, and minor wear particularly to the black enamel. The cover has a re-touched section around the Buddha's hand citron and the top of the dome (with some in-filling), and there are some sprayed areas to the cover and box. There are gaps where the rims meet (as illustrated).
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.