Deux boîtes à sceaux en bois laqué doré Chine, dynastie Qing, XIXE siècle

rectangulaires, surmontées de couvercles à pans coupés, à décor en léger relief de dragons et phénix en vol à la poursuite de la perle enflammée dans les nuages stylisés, reposant sur des bases plus larges à motif en relief de médaillons de fleurettes et formes géométriques, l'intérieur habillé de soie jaune (2)

The two "charnières" in the back are missing so the cover is detaching. Extensive wear and losses to the lacquer mostly around the base, edges and corners. The silk inside is dirty and with humidity stains. The gilding has a nice golden yellow color and a nice age patina. The small box : Is in good condition with dirt and "moisissures" overall. Some expected light wear to the corners.
"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."

Boxes such as the present lot were used to hold imperial seals or scrolls. Compare a pair of boxes of very similar design containing a jade book and dated to the Ming dynasty, formerly in the Imperial collections at the Shenyang palace, illustrated in The Gathering of Select Gems from Shenyang Imperial Palace Museum Collection, Shenyang, 1991, p. 21.