AN INSCRIBED CIRCULAR GREEN INK CAKE BY CHENG JUNFANG, LATE MING DYNASTY

the circular green ink cake carved on one recessed side with a Buddhist lion turned towards its left with a stylised seal mark roundel reading Cao min near its tail, the mythical beast superimposing partially on a recessed vertical band in the centre, the upper section of the recessed band with a four-character inscription reading taishang xuanshen, the lower section with a seal mark reading die quan, the reverse with a vertical four-character inscription reading Junfang zhi bao, flanked by leiwen motifs and archasitic kui dragons with angular scroll-like bodies

The overall condition is very good, with only some minor stains and expected nicks to the extremities.
"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."

For a circular black ink, also by Cheng Junfang, see Gerard Tsang and Hugh Moss, Arts from the Scholar's Studio, Fung Ping Shan Museum, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 1986, no. 38, where the author notes that the carver was born in Huizhou, south of Nanjing in the mid-16th Century.