A LARGE CANTON POLYCHROME AND CARVED IVORY PLEASURE BOAT QING DYNASTY, CIRCA 1840

intricately carved in the form of a two-tiered boat consisting of screened rooms divided by pierced floral panels, with figures seated and standing on the prow and upper deck, and oarsman punting at the side of the boat, the upper deck similarly carved with screened rooms with birds perched on the roofs and a promenade lined with jardinières of plants, with wood and glass display case

Collection of James Broun Ramsay, 1st Marquess of Dalhousie and Governor General of India in 1848 -1856.

The upperdeck of the boat has the side panels cracked and loosened in places which are now secured with thick yellowish glue, some floral panels are cracked on the side. The calligraphy on the top panel is rubbed and obscured in places. The side boards of the boat are loosened in places revealing the wood frame, the reticulated lotus panels around the bottom of the boat are chipped in various places. Apart from other minor nicks and losses to the extremities, the boat is in reasonably good condition.
"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."