A PARCEL-GILT AND SILVER-INLAID BRONZE SEAL PASTE BOX AND COVER 16TH / 17TH CENTURY, SIGNED HU WENMING

the top of the cover cast in low relief with a sinuous chilong encircling a shou medallion, the sides inlaid with a T-scroll in silver, the sides of the box cast with eight billows of clouds, the relief decoration all against diaper grounds, the base with a seal mark reading Yunjian Hu Wenming zhi (2)

The box and cover are in overall good condition. There is expected wear to the surface from age and use. There rims with small scattered nicks, particularly to the inner rims.
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 Ming dynasty box and cover with a similar mark is illustrated in Robert D. Mowry, China's Renaissance in Bronze, Phoenix Art Museum, 1993, cat. no. 11, where the author states that works bearing Hu Wenming marks come from a single workshop rather than a single person, as much variation exists, ibid., pp. 65-66.