A CARVED CINNABAR LACQUER PEACH-SHAPED BOX AND COVER MING DYNASTY, 15TH / 16TH CENTURY

of circular section, the pointed domed cover delicately carved with a butterfly hovering over dense foliage and large peony blooms, the box similarly decorated with peony blossoms and large palmette leaves, all carved through the layers of rich cinnabar lacquer to the yellow ground, the interior and recessed base lacquered brownish-red

2000 Years of Chinese Lacquer, Oriental Ceramic Society of Hong Kong and the Art Gallery, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 1993, cat. no. 51.
Layered Beauty: The Baoyizhai Collection of Chinese Lacquer, Art Museum, Institute of Chinese Studies, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 2010, cat. no. 43.

There are age cracks and surface wear to the box and cover. Box: there is a prominent age crack running across the base of the box. The interior of the box has extensive age cracks and corresponding lifting to the lacquer. Cover: Age cracks and minor flaking.
"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."