A BROWN 'QIANGJIN' LACQUER BOX AND COVER MARK AND PERIOD OF WANLI, DATED XINCHOU YEAR (CORRESPONDING TO 1601)

of rectangular shape with lobed corners, the lightly incised cover decorated with a cartouche enclosing a landscape scene with an official and three attendants against a wan diaper ground, each longer side with two confronting dragons in mutual pursuit of a 'flaming pearl' reserved within a cartouche, the narrow sides with dragons and floral sprays, all framed by scrolling lotus around the contours, the fitted box in similar design, above a footrim with a band of lingzhi and clouds, the interior and the countersunk base lacquered in black, the latter inscribed and gilded with an eight-character reign mark

The cover has a 1 cm chip to one side. The central panel on the cover has some black residue covering some of the main decoration (it might be possible to clean it). A few of the corners appear to have been lightly restored. The box has losses along the rim with one area on the rim made up of large consolidated pieces of lacquer that has not been restored. The interiors have not been re-lacquered. There is a small 1 cm area of loss to one corner on the base. Much of the box has been left in an "un-restored condition" with natural age cracks throughout the surface. There is plenty of gilding remaining on the box.
"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."