A CARVED CINNABAR LACQUER BOX AND COVER QING DYNASTY, 18TH CENTURY

of cylindrical form, the cover carved with a bearded sage accompanied by an acolyte gazing at gnarled pine within a landscape with rockwork and shrubs, the sides of the box and cover carved with a dense floret diaper ground, the base and interior lacquered in black

A circa 1cm area of the basket handle at the acolyte's feet has been lost and re-lacquered, showing a colour inconsistency which is also visible in the catalogue illustration. There are extensive chips and areas of loss along the rims and edges of the box and the cover (largest area measuring circa 7cm long). The interior of the box has an uneven 0.5 x 0.4cm nick and a scratch at the side into the black lacquer measuring circa 1.5cm. There are minor nicks to the extremities of the carving such as tip of the leafy bushes.
"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."