A CARVED IVORY 'CHILONG' SEAL QING DYNASTY, 17TH / 18TH CENTURY

of square form, carved with two recumbent chilong coiling amidst linghzi, the single-horned male biting the stem of one fungus white tenderly resting its head on its female companion's haunch, the eyes inlaid, the seal face crisply carved in relief with a two-character inscription 'Tan Rui' in zhuanshu (seal script) within a circle, possibly a name, the side incised Shi yi (?) in running script, the ivory patinated to a warm amber glow

The seal face has a 7 mm chip to the lower part of the ring encircling the two characters and another shallow polished one on top of the circle on the opposite side. Otherwise apart from some expected age crackles around the base, the overall condition is quite good. The ivory has an attractive patina of a warm amber tone.
"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."