A MOTHER-OF-PEARL IINLAID LACQUER LOW TABLE MING DYNASTY, 16TH CENTURY

of rectangular form supported on a rectangular waist with oblong pierced panels raised on a everted barbed apron incurving at the corners to form the legs, the top finely inlaid with a scene of a group of three scholars on horseback and their attendants on foot arriving at a birthday celebration at a pavilion nestled near a stream with pine, willow and bamboo, the apron inlaid with panels of ducks on a diaper ground

The table is in very good overall condition with the exception of some small areas of refreshing to the black lacquer, including to the rim and in particular to one corner of the rim, to three small sections of black lacquer within the cupsed lotus pond panels on the front apron, light overall crazing to the black lacquer and minor nicks and light age cracks.
"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."

This table is notable for the intricately inlaid figural scene and diaper grounds that serve to enhance the elegance of the form; see a table of closely related form and similar decoration sold in our Hong Kong rooms, 9^th October 2007, lot 1642; and another, from the Dr. Ip Yee collection, also sold in our Hong Kong rooms, 19^th November 1984, lot 122. Compare also a table of this form, decorated with a bird on a branch, illustrated in Margaret Medley, 'Lacquered Furniture', Percival David Foundation Colloquy on Art and Archaeology in Asia, no. 11, London, 1981, pl. 5a.