清十八 / 十九世紀 黃花梨配紅木雕鏤空髹漆方形托盆

of square form, set on four 'L'-shaped feet, the sides decorated with beading below a formalised key-fret gallery interwoven with elaborate meandering lotus scrolls, all finely carved in openwork, enclosing the recessed flat surface lacquered black, the wood of chestnut brown tone

The tray is generally in quite good condition with only minor crackles or nicks on the interior lacquered surface. The reticulated fence is in good condition with occasional minor age cracks at the corners. The actual colour of the wood is of a slightly warmer reddish-brown tone compared to the catalogue 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."

Attractive trays of this type, often referred to as ‘stationery trays’, were used by scholars to hold various implements, writing materials or small treasures including paperweights on their table. The present example, while simple in style, is elegant in form and carved decoration. For a related example, see a tray illustrated in Gerard Tsang and Hugh Moss, Arts from the Scholar’s Studio, Fung Ping Shan Museum, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 1986, cat. no. 243, with a simpler reticulated gallery.  Compare also a tray carved in huanghuali wood published in The Dr. S. Y. Yip Collection of Classic Chinese Furniture II. Chan Chair and Qin Bench, Hong Kong, 1998, pl. 40; and a smaller rectangular zitan tray, possibly made to hold brushes, sold in these rooms, 8th October 2010, lot 2214.