A SOAPSTONE ‘BUDDHIST LION’ SEAL QING DYNASTY, 18TH/19TH CENTURY

of rectangular form, the top deftly carved with three Buddhist lions, each finely detailed with bulging eyes, flaring nostrils, bushy mane and tail, the side of the seal signed Buanda. Danyi Zhuren (Buanda. Master of Serenity) and dated bingzi year (corresponding to 1756, 1816 or 1876), inscribed to the seal face with seven characters reading Ban dushu. Ban xue guanxin (Half learning the books. Half learning to read the mind), the stone of a creamy-caramel tone with darker brown inclusions

This is generally in good condition, but there is a small 3mm by 2mm chip to the front lower left side. There is a small bruise above this 5mm by 2mm. There is a flaw running down the centre of the back of one of the lions and there is some surface scratching to the sides and 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."