An Incised and Gilt Cinnabar Lacquer Circular Food Box Ryukyu Kingdom, 18th Century

of circular form with straight sides and an incurved rim, raised on a recessed foot and sealed flat base secured with a transverse stretcher, finely engraved and gilt in the chinkin technique on a cinnabar ground, the rim and raised sides with four left-tomoe mon reserved on a diaper ground scattered with detached clouds, all within double line borders, the foot similarly decorated, the interior and the base lacquered in red

The lacquer is somewhat tarnished and the gilding rubbed predominantly around the mouth rim revealing a black lacquer underneath (showing on the catalogue illustration) but overall the basin is in good condition, in commensuration with its age. There is some expected retouching in areas and re-lacquering around the mouthrim, together with crackles to the red lacquer on the interior and the base.
"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."

This vessel bears the left radiating tomoe mon crest of the Ryukyuan royal family.