清 石雕「子牙釣魚」圖硯 《吳竝製》款

of irregular shape, the smooth grinding face carved in low relief with a fisherman framing a small cave forming the recessed inkwell, all further enclosed by rushing water, the reverse vertically incised with three characters in seal script reading Wu Bing zhi ('made by Wu Bing'), the stone of a striated and mottled deep green tone, possibly songhua, simulating rockwork and turbulent waters, wood box and cover

瑪麗及莊智博收藏
香港蘇富比2005年10月23日，編號30

Apart from some light surface scratches and old ink stains (especially to the well), the inkstone is in very good condition. There is a repaired chip in two sections (3 x 2 cm and 1 x 1 cm) to the front of the carved wood cover, a few dents and and a small flake to the front of the wooden box rim (shown in the illustration in the catalogue). The actual colour is consistent with 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."

The skilful depiction of the fisherman amidst swirls of mist, coupled with the use of the natural striations of the stone to represent turbulent waters, illustrate the fully developed aesthetic of the Chinese inkstone carver where the stone has been skilfully worked so that its unique markings, qualities and colouring are adapted to the subject matter.

Compare ivory trays of this form illustrated in S.E. Lucas, The Catalogue of Sassoon Chinese Ivories, vol. III, London, 1950, cat. nos. 811-826, with one in particular, pl. 826, bearing a remarkable resemblance to the present example., especially in the naturalistic effect achieved through the skilful carving.

An inkstone of related form was sold in these rooms, 17th November 1988, lot 251; and another was sold at Christie’s New York, 29th/30th September 1992, lot 863.