A FINELY CARVED 'CAMELLIA' BRUSHPOT, SIGNED ZHOU ZHIYAN 17TH CENTURY

of characteristic cylindrical form supported on three short feet, the exterior finely carved in low relief with large camellia blooms growing from knotty branches amid tight and opening buds and leafy stems, with the seal Zhiyan, the bamboo of a warm golden-brown tone

There are minor expected age cracks, and very light surface wear, concentrated to the mouthrim. Otherwise the piece is generally in very good condition overall.
"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."

Zhou Zhiyan (1685-1773), also known as Zhou Hao, was a prominent bamboo and wood carved of the Qing dynasty and native of Jiading, near Shanghai in Jiangsu province.  He was skilled in carving calligraphy and painting subjects, and especially renowned for his carvings of landscape in the style of the Southern School. Zhou developed a new approach to carving called 'iron stroke and light depiction' (liuqing yang wen) that was based on painting techniques. He used blade as a brush and by using heavy and light strokes to outline and highlight, he created works that closely resembled paintings.

For examples of works by Zhou see three illustrated in Simon Kwan, Ming and Qing Bamboo, Hong Kong, 2000, pls. 91-93.  Compare also two brushpots sold in these rooms, 31st October 2004, lot 189 and lot 191.