A NANMU ROOT WOOD SCULPTURE QING DYNASTY

naturalistically formed, the root oriented to resemble zoomorphic shapes, the wood of reddish-brown patina, inscribed on the base with a four-line poem, signed Wangxiang yinshu ti ('Inscribed by the Late Fragrance Poetry Master')

Acquired in Hong Kong, 1996.

Apart from some natural age cracks, the overall condition is very good.
"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 poem on the present vessel translates as follows:

'Deep in the mountains who knows how many years lain soundly drunk,
Dreams filled with Heaven and Earth, images in countless number.
But now sobered up, all heroes lie before me prostrate in awe,
As I raise my head straight up, ready to lift the sky!'

Signed Wangxiang yinzhu ti ('Inscribed by the Late Fragrance Poetry Master')

Wangxiang Jushi ('Late Fragrance Retired Scholar') was the cognomen of the 19th century painter and calligrapher Bai Rulin who was particularly fond of chrysanthemums, hence the use of the word 'late frangrance' for his studio name.