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

of large rectangular form, the flat upper surface with two wasps among flowering chrysanthemum blooms issuing from a large garden rock on a riverbank, two cranes perched on the opposite side with two butterflies in flight above, all against a diapered ground, the sides deftly carved through the layers with flowering peony, the interior and base lacquered black

Kaisendo Museum, Yamagata (according to label).

There are some areas of restoration of the lacquer to the edges and corners of the cover, as well as some chips and cracks in some areas. There is also cracks running through some of the motifs on the upper surface of the cover and a area of small loss to the wing of the lower butterfly and to one reed to the lower central section. There is also restorations and chips to the corners of the box and cracks to the interior of the box and cover with restorations to the corners of the cover and one small area of lacquer loss (1cm by 1cm).
"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."