A LARGE INLAID MOTHER-OF-PEARL BLACK LACQUER SCREEN MING DYNASTY, 16TH CENTURY

the panel inlaid with mother-of-pearl depicting a pavilion landscape, the centre decorated with a two storey pavilion by a lotus pond with an official receiving visitors and two scholars at a game of weiqi, the panel decorated with further pavilions and officials accompanied by attendants with more guests arriving at the front porch, the top of the panel inlaid with mountain peaks and distant pavilions enshrouded in clouds and mist, the panel enclosed by a gilded and lacquered frame, fitted on the original carved black lacquer stand

The overall condition is quite good. There is just one long vertical age crack (just right of center) that runs the length of the screen and is visible on the front and the back. There are mother-of-pearl losses and lesser age cracks, but no re-lacquering or re-painting on the front. The back side has a little light re-lacquering to loss patches. The frame is original.
"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."