A SMALL BOXWOOD INCENSE POWDER BOX AND COVER QING DYNASTY, 17TH / 18TH CENTURY

carved in the form of a section of a pine-tree trunk with a branch growing over the top of the cover, the uneven sides carved with a cluster of two lingzhi fungus and a large irregular knot hole with a shoot of bamboo emerging through the hole and extending onto the cover, the base with a lightly carved spiral, the wood patinated to a rich orange-brown colour 

Apart from a 1.5 cm trapezoidal repair to the inner lip of the box, the overall condition is quite good. The actual size is about 10% smaller than the catalogue illustration.
"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."

Small boxes of this type were made for holding incense powder. They were part of the standard accoutrement of the scholar's studio, although those made in boxwood are rare. The simple yet beautifully conceived design on the cover of three pine-needle clusters depicted with a single bamboo stem and lingzhi fungus on the side is rich in symbolism and together represent the wish for longevity.   

In its form and carving style the present box is inspired by lacquer boxes of the Ming dynasty, an example of which is illustrated in Zhongguo qiqi quanji, vol. 5, Shijiazhuang, 1993, pl. 51.