Boite couverte en laque guri rouge Chine, début de la dynastie Ming, XVE siècle

Circulaire, le couvercle et la base décorés par applications alternées de laque rouge et noire, incisés de motifs en rinceaux archaïsants découvrant les différentes couches, l'intérieur et la base laquée noire

Good overall original condition. A crack in the red lacquer 2 cm on the upper edge of the base rim. Several restored chips with lacquer stabilized to the inner rim. A vertical crackling inside the base to the black lacquer, two other crackled lines in the black lacquer beneath the box and some light wear to the footrim.
"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."

The deep V-cut channels on this box create a marbled effect by showing off the layers of colours. This style of lacquer carving originated in the Yuan dynasty, when the emphasis was placed on the multiple layers of lacquer rather than on the top surface pattern. A box of this form and size decorated with a similar design was sold at Christie's Hong Kong, 30^th May 2005, lot 1354. See also two smaller related boxes sold at Christie's Hong Kong, 7^th July 2003, lot 725, and the other, 28^th November 2006, lot 1694.