A SUPERB PAIR OF TIELI WOOD BOOKSHELVES 17TH CENTURY

each of rectangular form and comprising three registers of shelves, the second and third interrupted by a pair of drawers, a recessed plain apron with cusped spandrels framing the cabinet below the uppermost and bottom registers, the apron save for the reverse panel with beaded edges, the central shelf framed by a recessed gallery pierced with elongated quatrefoil, the reverse of the bottom shelf fitted with a back panel, the densely grained wood richly patinated to a deep brown colour

The shelves are in overall excellent presentation stage. There are a few old occasional nicks or expected dents along the beaded edges of the aprons or the stretchers. There is an old repaired crack to one of the smaller side stretchers on one bookshelf. There is possibly a replaced section along the inner edge of the frame of the other's bottom shelf. The back planks at the rear of the bottom section may be later Qing dynasty replacements.
"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."