A RARE CHENXIANGMU 'LANDSCAPE' BRUSHPOT 17TH CENTURY |

the gently tapering and fluted sides carved in various levels of high relief on the exterior, depicting idyllic landscape scenes of plantain, wutong, pine trees, bamboo and leafy shrubs growing from cascade rocks, interrupted by sheltered cottages and distant figures within, mounted with a curved rim and hardwood base, the dark wood patinated to an oily finish, the interior lacquered and fitted with a copper lining

As typical of 17th century chenxiangmu, there are typical age cracks. There are minor bruises and chips, especially at the rim, concealed by the wood mount. A 3cm section on the reverse has been refixed to the surface. Other minor surface wear and pitting.
"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."

Chenxiangmu (eagleswood) brushpots are rare objects for the scholar's desk. They usually retain the natural form of the wood, and are characteristically decorated with applied relief scenes pieced from smaller sections of wood as seen on the current brushpot. The three-dimensional composition of this brushpot is enhanced through the sophisticated use of high and low relief carving. The natural knots of the wood have been cleverly incorporated into the decoration conveying a naturalistic rocky cascade. For a closely related brushpot with landscape decoration in similar protruding relief, in the Palace Museum, Beijing, see Zhongguo zhumu yajiao qi quanji [The complete collection of Chinese bamboo, wood, ivory and rhinoceros horn], vol. 4: Ya jiao qi [ivory and rhinoceros horn], Beijing, 2009, cat. no. 51. Another example from the Qing court collection, with remarkably similar treatment to the trees and rocks, is illustrated in The Complete Collection of Treasures of the Palace Museum. Bamboo, Wood, Ivory and Rhinoceros Horn Carvings, Hong Kong, 2002, no. 49.