A CINNABAR LACQUER BOX AND COVER MING DYNASTY, 16TH CENTURY

of circular form, the flat cover carved through the rich layers of red lacquer depicting a pair of phoenix surrounded by pairs of birds in a landscape with rocks, pine trees and lotus, the box similarly decorated with three deer sheltered beneath a wutong tree in a garden, the interior lacquered black

A section of the left edge of the cover may have been broken and restuck, with visible cracks with associated loss and infill to the lacquer. There is a polished loss to the tail of one bird in flight. Other minor age cracks and surface wear elsewhere.
"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."