A RARE CARVED AND GILT-PAINTED IVORY EWER QING DYNASTY, 18TH / 19TH CENTURY

of square globular form, one side elegantly set with a tapering spout, the other with a loop handle, the flat circular cover surmounted by a rectangular finial, skilfully carved in high relief with the 'Three Friends of Winter', prunus, bamboo and pine, clustered densely in successive layers and covered in gold paint, the base inscribed with an apocryphal four-character mark Neifu tushu ('Studio of Paintings and Books in the Inner Court') within a square 

Acquired in Paris between the 1970s and the early 90s.

The spout and the handle are carved separately and attached to the body. The loop handle is slightly detached from the body. The gilding on the surface is somewhat worn, revealing the white-coloured ivory beneath. There are a few nicks scattered to some edges of the carved design and a few age cracks in the ivory, but overall the teapot is in good condition.
"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."