A RARE TIELIMU CONVERTIBLE SQUARE TOP TABLE QING DYNASTY, 18TH CENTURY

the low table with a single floating burlwood panel within a mitered frame above a narrow waist and a shaped and beaded apron with carved archaistic 'T'-scrolls, supported by four angular straight legs similarly decorated, all resting on a tall removable folding base with legs of circular section, the underside with three transverse braces (2)

There has been some shrinkage of the inset panel and one end of the panel with an approixmately 1 inch wide replaced section. There are numerous irregular cracks through the burlwood panel and some minor nicks and chips along the edges. The feet with 3 inch high copper caps.The patina is matte but the dramatic graining of the wood is still visible.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

There appear to be no examples of this form represented in public collections. A very similar example but in huanghuali, from the collection of Mimi and Raymond Hung, is illustrated in Robert H. Ellsworth, Nicholas Grindley and Anita Christy, Chinese Furniture - One Hundred Examples from the Mimi and Raymond Hung Collection, New York, 1996, no. 41.  This unusual and practical design functions as both a low table, kangji, and a tall square fangzhuo.