A RECTANGULAR INLAID ZITAN BOX AND COVER QING DYNASTY, KANGXI PERIOD

of rectangular form with slightly canted corners, the cover skillfully inlaid depicting a malachite-crested and hardstone bird perched on a gnarled stained- bone branch issuing flowering mother-of pearl, hardstone and coral prunus blossoms and buds, and with hibiscus blooms issuing from rockwork of lapis lazuli and turquoise, the stepped rim fitted to the conforming lower section resting on a slightly recessed base (2)

The Asian Gallery, Gray's Antique Center, London, 1998.

The box and cover are in overall good condition. Some elements of the inlay have been restuck, the crest of the bird has a repaired break. There may be a small missing nodule of prunus bough directly above the adjoining pair of plum blossoms. There has been slight shrinkage of the base panel. There is expected wear to the surface.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

A related rectangular box and cover, similarly inlaid, in the Palace Museum Beijing, is illustrated in The Palace Museum Collection of Elite Carving, Beijing, 2002, pl. 99. A box of smaller dimension but closely related to the present example sold in our Hong Kong rooms 8th October 2014, lot 3806.