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

of large rectangular form, the flat upper surface carved with a scholar sitting on a grassy patch beneath a pine tree gazing at a waterfall, two attendants nearby, one brewing tea, the other further approaching, the landscape with imposing jagged cliffs and rockwork, all against a diapered ground, the straight sides deftly carved through the rich cinnabar with flowering peony, the box similarly carved, the interior and base lacquered black (2)

D & S Howlett Collection (according to label). 

In general good condition. There are some minor touch-ups and restorations to the top of the cover, including the tip of the clouds, a small section of the mountain, and a small branch of the pine tree. Further consolidation and restoration to lacquer lifting and losses, particularly to the interior and exterior corners and edges of both the box and cover, as well as around the lip of the box. There are some expected age cracks to the interior and base, consistent with age.
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.

Compare two closely related mid-Ming dynasty examples in the Palace Museum, Beijing, one carved to the top with scholars gathering in a courtyard detailed with pavilions, trees and rockwork, the sides decorated with the 'Three Friends of Winter', illustrated in Zhu Jiajin and Xia Gengqi, Zhongguo qiqi quanji. Ming [Lacquer treasures from China. Ming dynasty], vol. 5, Fujian,  1997, pl. 64; the other depicting scholars gathered on the terrace of a tall pavilion by the water, published in Chen Lihua, Gugong shoucang. Ni yinggai zhidao de 200 jian. Diaoqi / Collections of the Palace Museum. Carved Lacquer Ware, Beijing, 2008, pl. 65.