Panneau en soie tissée, kesi Chine, dynastie Ming, XVIIE siècle

représentant un dragon de face en vol au-dessus d'une montagne émergeant de vagues stylisées, à la poursuite de la perle enflammée parmi les nuages, encadré sous verre

There are stained areas scattered across the textile. There are also areas with later restoration to the kesi, particularly to the lower right hand claw, cloud and ground, a second area with later restoration around the tip of the tail and scattered restoration to the dragon's scales. There are also some areas of loss and some areas where the different parts of the design have been later restitched, particularly around the head of the dragon. Overall the colour is less bright than the catalogue illustration suggests.
"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."