A RED LACQUER AND WICKER BRUSH TRAY MING DYNASTY, 16TH / 17TH CENTURY

of rectangular form with straight sides and cusped corners below an everted rim, the red-lacquered ground finely inlaid on the interior walls with sections of wickerwork contained within raised gilt frames, the exterior similarly decorated with plain panels within gilt borders, all supported on an integral stand carved with a 'cloud'-shaped apron outlined in gilt and flared foot, the recessed base lacquered in black

The tray is in overall good condition. There is a restored chip to the rim and some typical age crackles along the rim, some stabilized with light touch up. The gilding on the carved raised borders is partly rubbed in areas.
"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."

A plain tray of related form, but with additional basketry on the exterior, was included in the Oriental Ceramic Society of Hong Kong exhibition 2000 Years of Chinese Lacquer, Art Gallery, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 1993, cat. no. 99, together with another of rectangular form, painted with figures in a landscape, cat. no. 101.