A CARVED IVORY 'TORTOISE DRAGON' SEAL, BY WANG YUN (1888-1934) EARLY 20TH CENTURY

of square section, the knob deftly carved in openwork with a vigilant 'dragon turtle', the single-horned carapaced beast with a finely incised mane and a curling bushy tail, standing four square on powerful claws, its head raised in an alert position, the base finely and deeply undercut with the six characters jingxiu keyi yongnian ('Meditation helps to achieve longevity') and signed Shi Xiang on one side, the ivory patinated to an attractive cream-white colour

The overall condition is quite good. There are some age cracks around the base of the seal as shown in the illustration in the catalogue and fine crakling on the animal's carapace. There are a couple of tiny nicks around the seal face and a small ' C' -shaped restuck flake to the bottom edge of the base near one of the front 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."

Wang Yun (1888-1934), literary name Shixiang, was a native of Suzhou. He was good at seal carving, renowned for his sinewy and flowing styles.