a group of six boxes Qing Dynasty

comprising six boxes, five of rectangular form: a zitan scholar's box, the fitted top with a two-character inscription, the interior with multiple compartments, including two inkstones for black and red ink; one document box, with flat black lacquered top and bottom, the sides inset with panels of tight bamboo weave, brass plates and corner latches, the base with three-character mark; one hongmu box, the cover bearing an incised inscription and seal mark carved in relief, the interior fitted with a shallow upper tray above a further storage compartment; a zitan scroll box, with sliding lid, the corner guards inlaid with ivory; one huanghuali document box with rich warm patina, brass plate and latch; and a square zitan box, the top gilt with 16 wan medallions, the sides of the box boldly carved with a fretwork pattern flanking a bat (6)

Wood, lacquered, and bamboo box: L'Asie Exotique, New York.
Hongmu box and zitan scrollbox: William Lipton, Ltd, New York.

The lacquer and bamboo weave box with finely crackled surface and wear to the underside. The huanghuali document box in good condition. The zitan scholar's box with a 1/2 inch wide ink stained section extending the length of the top and dripping down one side. The inlaid zitan square presentation box with minor brass wire replacements and loose joinery requiring regluing. The zitan scroll box in good condition. The hongmu box with reeded sides with very slightly warped cover and ink stains on the surface.
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.