A SERPENTINE 'FLOWER AND FRUIT' WASHER QING DYNASTY, 18TH CENTURY

the greenish-brown serpentine stone carved in quatrelobed form, with mouth and footrim of conforming shape, the shallow rounded sides with sprays of peach, lotus, lychee, and begonia in relief, original carved wooden stand

There is a 3.5 C-shaped chip that has been re-stuck on the rim with an attendant 5 cm hairline crack. On one of the narrow sides there is a short vein in the stone. The carved areas remain in quite good condition with only a few minute nicks to the mouth rim and raised carving (tips of leaves, branches and petals). The foot has a 2 cm bruise to the stone that has turned a tan, but is stable. But the overall condition is still quite good with natural inclusions and an attractive finish.
"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."