A HUANGHUALI LOW TABLE, KANGZHUO QING DYNASTY, 18TH/19TH CENTURY

the single panel top set within a rectangular frame, above a narrow thumb-grooved waist and plain apron, the legs of square section joined by humpback stretchers and terminating in hoof feet

Collection of Dr J.H. Zeeman, Charge d'Affaires, Embassy of the Netherlands, Beijing 1954-1957.
Thence by descent.

This table is in good condition but there is minor shrinkage to the panel to the top surface and a 10.5cm area of repair to the back left corner of the top. There is a 7cm vertical crack running from the top right side of the front leg running to the stretcher. There is also a semi-circular repaired chip (2cm by 4cm) to the top of the left side of the front leg and a minor chip to the back stretcher. It is possible that the legs are later adaptations.
"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."

Low tables of this waisted form and with humpback stretchers are unusual although a similar table was sold in our New York rooms, 28th/29th 1989, lot 319. Compare also a taller table of this design, from the Qing Court collection and still in Beijing, illustrated in The Complete Collection of Treasures of the Palace Museum. Furniture of the Ming and Qing Dynasties (I), Hong Kong, 2002, pl. 90.