A Mother-of-Pearl Inlaid Black Lacquer Tiered Box and Cover 17th / 18th Century

of lobed cylindrical form and three-tiered section surmounted by an arched handle, the cover inlaid in mother-of-pearl with two confronting phoenix encircling a central character shou, the lobed sides picked out with a variety of simplified motifs including floral sprays and stylised figures, the handles decorated with a flower in a vase, the interior lacquered in red, the underside applied with a brown paint

There are occasional dents and flakes to the lacquer in commensuration with its age. There is some old re-lacquering to the edge of the handle and the raised edge of the medallion on the cover. There is some expected fritting and wear to the footrim.
"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."