A CARVED ‘SCHOLARS’ BAMBOO BRUSHPOT, BITONG 17TH CENTURY, SIGNED SANSONG

of cylindrical form, carved and pierced with groups of scholars engaged in various literati pursuits including chess, calligraphy and painting appreciation, all set in a landscape with the Three Friends of Winter, signed Sansong (also known as Zhu Zhizheng), the rim and base bound with wood

There are vertical age cracks along the rim and the foot, longest measuring approx. 4cm. Apart from minor nibbling and small nicks along the extremities, the brushpot is in very 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."

Zhu Zhizheng, a native of Jiading in Jiangsu province, was the second son of the famous Ming dynasty bamboo carver Zhu Ying. He was active during the reign of the Tainqi and Chongzhen emperors of the 17th century. It is said that he carved mainly for his own pleasure, often taking his time, and was especially fond of landscapes. For further information on Zhu see Ip Yee and Laurence C.S. Tam, Chinese Bamboo Carving, part II, Hong Kong, 1982, pp. 61-2. An example of Zhu's work, a bamboo brushpot similarly carved and pierced with three scholars enjoying each other's company in a landscape setting, and signed 'San Song', from the collection of the Hong Kong Museum of Art, Hong Kong, is published ibid., part I, pl. 37.