Rare médaillon en ivoire Dynastie Yuan/début de la dynastie Ming

finement sculpté en relief de deux lettrés assis sur une terrasse accompagnés de leurs acolytes, le revers conique sculpté d'un lotus stylisé au centre d'où rayonnent les emblèmes bouddhiques entre quatre médaillons polylobés abritant des animaux fabuleux; socle, restaurations (2)

Acquired in China in the early 20th century.
Thence in the family by descent.

There is a ca. 6cm wide half-moon shaped piece broken out of the the upper left hand side of the medallion which was reattached of old. Within this piece, there are two smaller pieces that are broken and partially restored. There are also some small losses to the ivory to the raised parts of the design particularly near the rim.
"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."