A HUANGHUALI RECESSED-LEG PAINTING TABLE, HUA'AN QING DYNASTY, 17TH CENTURY

the long rectangular top set with a floating panel in a wide molded frame, on flared legs of circular cross-section joined by two end braces, the straight apron with short spandrels joint to the legs, the underside with fixed transverse braces

The table top, made from a single board, is slightly lifting on the edge on one side due to shrinkage. The end braces have a few fills, one with a 12 cm patch, one with a 2 x 3 cm restuck patch. Two of the flanges on the apron flanking one of the legs are huanghuali replacements. The repairs and replacements are ninor and expected and the overall condition is very good. The table surface is well preserved and attractive.
"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."

These tables were designed as surfaces on which to paint.  The height and depth are appropriately proportioned for an artist to stand and freely use the brush over a long paper or silk surface.  Often the surface of painting tables will be stained with ink or will bear burn marks, both indicative of the use they received.  Occasionally, these tables will have regularly spaced score marks across the top.  These scratches were used both as a ruler  for measurement of the paper or silk surface or are scratches made by the knife blade as it cut the paper to the appropriate length.  Fine-grain wood were reserved for painting tables as the craftsmen strove for the pure beauty of the grain and structural form. 

Compare with a huanghuali table of slightly larger proportions, sold in our New York rooms, 19th March 1997 lot 383 and again 23rd March 2011, lot 671.