AN INSCRIBED ZITAN RETICULATED CYLINDRICAL PERFUMIER QING DYNASTY, 17TH / 18TH CENTURY

of cylindrical form, the hardwood deftly carved and pierced with two chilong, one ascending and the other descending with clawed arms outstretched, facing each other with their hair swept over serpentine bodies and writhing amidst swirling lingzhi stems, all between two borders of angular scrolls and set on a stand inscribed horizontally in clerical script with eight characters reading yi hong xiang nuan, huakai jian fo ('With a pond filled with fragrance and warmth, Buddha will appear when the flowers bloom'), the base incised with a square seal reading Kezhai ('Studio of Reverence'), the seal of Wu Dacheng

Collection of Wu Dacheng (1835-1902) (seal mark).

There is a 0.5cm flake to the lacquered surface at the top, below the key fret, but otherwise good condition, with just minor surface wear.
"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."