Lot 250
  • 250

CHINA, AN ALBUM SHOWING THE LIFE CYCLE OF SILKWORMS. [C.EARLY 1800S]

Estimate
4,000 - 6,000 GBP
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Description

  • An album showing the life cycle of silkworms. [early 1800s] 
Folio (405 x 325mm.), 14 watercolours on Chinese paper, each mounted on thick paper, contemporary Chinese silk boards, tear to one watercolour, light wear to Chinese paper, one watercolour detached, minor wear or restoration to extremities of binding

Condition

Condition is described in the main body of the catalogue, where appropriate.
"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."

Catalogue Note

A LARGE FORMAT ALBUM OF FINE WATERCOLOURS, providing a comprehensive record of the life cycle of the silkworm. The production of silk by the Chinese has been practised for some 5000 years. It was a closely guarded secret for about 2500 years, before being smuggled out to Japan, India, and Korea, coming to the West comparatively recently. The domestic silkmoths are dependent on humans for reproduction, this being a result of millennia of selective breeding.