A RARE INKSTONE CASE MUROMACHI PERIOD, 15TH - 16TH CENTURY |

the circular inkstone box with tray for a brush and a flush fitting cover, decorated in negoro style, the red lacquer, worn away in places, revealing the black lacquer beneath

Stephen Little and Edmund J. Lewis View of the Pinnacle, Japanese Lacquer writing boxes (Hawai 2011), no.2 pp.4-5

There is a crack to the cover running from the outer edge as can be seen in the photograph, otherwise as is typical of this style of lacquer the red has worn over age revealing the black lacquer beneath. By the nature of the object, there are slight dents, scratches and chips to the lacquer as can be seen in the illustration.
"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."

Negoro inkstone cases are rare and Kawada only publishes two, see Kawada Sadamu, Negoro nuri: Nihon no Bijitsu (Kyoto, 1985), pp.395-396.