A MOTHER-OF-PEARL INLAID INCENSE STAND QING DYNASTY, KANGXI PERIOD

the raised circular top supported on a cusped apron and four cabriole legs, finely inlaid in slivers of iridescent mother-of-pearl with a landscape depicting five storeyed pavilions scattered on rocky shores interlinked by arched bridges and lined with a variety of trees, with two flat-bottomed boats drifting on rippling waters and the moon rising between misty mountains in the distance, the apron detailed with clusters of chrysanthemum flanked by sprays of camellias within barbed cartouches divided by floral diapers and fern leaves draping the legs

The stand is in overall good condition with typical minor loss to the inlays and relacquering in areas, predominantly along the edges of the apron.
"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."

Compare a square table of this type, offered in our New York rooms, 21^st September 2006, lot 72; and a lozenge-shaped example sold in our New York rooms, 7^th/8^th April 1988, lot 379. Stands and tables belonging to this group are probably based on Ming dynasty prototypes; see a square example included in the exhibition Chugoku no raden/Mother-of-Pearl Inlay in Chinese Lacquer Art, Tokyo National Museum, Tokyo, 1981, cat. no. 46.

For a description of the inlay technique refer to the note of lot 167 in this sale.