A CARVED TIANHUANG 'DEER' SEAL QING DYNASTY

of rectangular section, the knop very finely carved in openwork as a recumbent stag, raising its head toward the sky with its antlers trailing behind, its hindlegs neatly tucked under and its forelegs folded in front with one knee raised, the spotted fur finely detailed with incised hairs, the seal face carved with the four characters in seal script reading yan nian yi shou ('to prolong life and be good for longevity'), the translucent stone of warm orange-honey tone with typical paler streaks, Japanese wood box inscribed with hakogaki

A private Japanese collection.

Sen Cha Dogu. Noh Dogu Meihin Ten [Exhibition of Sencha Tea ustensils and Noh costumes, masks and instruments], Osaka Bijutsu Club, 25th/26th May 1994, no. 64.

The seal is in very good condition with only minor surface scratches around the square base and a minute nick to the edge of the impression face. The actual colour is quite close to the catalogue illustration.
"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."