Lot 116
  • 116

A CINNABAR LACQUER 'SHOULAO' LACQUER BOX AND COVER QING DYNASTY, QIANLONG PERIOD |

Estimate
8,000 - 12,000 GBP
bidding is closed

Description

  • 17.3 cm, 6 3/4  in. 
of rounded form, the cover intricately carved in layers with an animated scene depicting Shoulao and two attendants carrying a double gourd and a basket of offerings, under towering paulownia and pine trees within a rocky landscape, enclosed by a keyfret and lappet border, the sides of the cover and box detailed with panels of blooming foliage including peony, prunus and lotus, alternating with auspicious emblems, the interior and base lacquered black

Condition

This box and cover are in overall good condition, with the exception of some minute cracks and nicks to the lacquer, and some retouching to the lacquer in various areas, in particular to the cover. The interior rim of the box has some chips (largest approx. 0.6 x 0.2 cm). There is also some general surface wear and scratches.
"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."

Catalogue Note

Compare a larger box of this type carved with scholars and attendants amidst a garden scene, from the Qing Court collection and still in Beijing, illustrated in The Complete Collection of Treasures of the Palace Museum. Lacquer Wares of the Qing Dynasty, Hong Kong, 2006, pl. 37; another published in K. Herberts, Oriental Lacquer Art and Technique, London, 1992, pp 26-7; and one, carved with figures in a landscape, in the British Museum, London, registration no. 1958,0729.35.