AN 'IMPERIAL' SILK AND METAL THREAD CARPET QING DYNASTY, CIRCA 1900

of rectangular form and vertically orientated, finely woven with a central panel of nine five-clawed dragons contesting flaming pearls amidst scattered cloud scrolls, all framed by lishui polychrome borders, with a five-character inscription within a rectangular cartouche at the top, reading Yongren Gong yuyong (For imperial use in the Hall of Eternal Benevolence)

Field in typical technique for this group of silvered copper thread, surface embroidered on the cotton foundation; motifs and borders piled in silk, the pile varies from 3-4mm in the central motifs to areas of wear to knotheads or foundation. Old fold wear in the field along the central vertical axis, with some losses to metal threads along the fold line, and losses to coral silk stems, which have been mended with red wool in the lower half of the field (visible in the catalogue illustration). Localised wear to foundation, particularly to the left-hand border. The top left corner has a 10 x 6cm semi-circular area of repair. A small darned hole with cobbled repair (4 x 4cm) under the mid claw of the side dragon on the right. Stain on metal thread just above the central dragon (approx. 6x6cm). Localised wear to edges; original cotton side cords with some minor losses. Original flat woven ends turned under with a woven tape to reinforce, at both ends; the upper-end with four metal hanging rings added later, which should be removed. The rug would benefit from surface clean. We recommend the rug should be hung and not used on the floor unless in a very low traffic area. If intending to hang the rug, we would suggest attaching Velcro strip to the upper edge, with its companion strip fastened to a wooden batten (Cleaning, Velcro and batten could be supplied by a textile or carpet restorer).
"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."