CHINESE SCHOOL, 19TH CENTURY A PAIR OF 'PEACOCK' PAINTINGS

ink and colour on silk, one depicting a large peacock perched on a branch, the other painted with a peacock descending towards another peacock amid peony blossoms issuing from rockwork, both with an apocryphal signature of Qian Shunju (1235-1301), framed

One painting is in good condition with the exception of very light foxing and scratchings to the surface. The painting is framed by wood behind a glass panel. The other painting has a 50cm chalky scratch mark running horizontally across the painting near the top and a 2cm area of loss running adjacent to the scratch mark, there are many other irregular scratches on the surface (the longest measuring circa 13cm). Minor thread loss is evident across the surface, including losses along a circa 22cm line at the middle of the painting and another circa 36cm line near the bottom. There is general light foxing across the surface, the paint is flaked in places. The painting is framed by wood without a glass panel.
"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."