A MASSIVE GILT AND POLYCHROME LACQUER 'BIRTHDAY' SCREEN DATED TONGZHI YICHOU YEAR, CORRESPONDING TO 1865

one side painted with a scene of Xiwang mu receiving birthday greetings from immortals, the other side inscribed with the date Tongzhi yichou year, followed by a dedicatory inscription to Lady Wang, offering her greetings on her seventieth birthday, framed above a carved panels, the frame and trestle stand painted with scrolling lotus

The screen appears to be in good overall condition. The condition of the lacquer consistent with its age. With a network of horizontal cracks to the black lacquer ground of the screen, the reverse side with a long vertical crack to the center, cutting through approximately 2/3rds of the calligraphy, flakes to the edges and corner of the lacquer, most significantly to the uppermost corners of the screen and to the supports. Extensive rubbing and wear to the gilding, as visible in the catalog image. On the reverse, between the 1st and 2nd rows of calligraphy on the far left side, faint outline of the numeral '12' inscribed within a circle. Possible areas of re-touching to the edges.
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.