清十八 / 十九世紀 竹胎褐漆刻「金剛經」筆筒

with a flanged base and rim, inscribed around the exterior in standard script with the Jingang banruo boluomi jing, Chinese translation of the Vajracchedikā-prajñāpāramitā-sūtra ('Diamond / Thunderbolt Cutter Perfection of Wisdom Sūtra'), commonly referred to by the short title Jingang jing, the 'Diamond Sutra.' 

This brushpot may also be a container meant originally to contain the diamond sutra. There is some rubbing to the characters and expected wear to the lacquer coating consistent with age and visible on the photograph in the catalogue. There may be some relacquering along the vertical joint on one side. There is some expected pitting and occasional minute dents to the metal mounts. It is otherwise in overall good condition.
"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."

此筆筒刻金剛般若波羅蜜經，間稱金剛經，記佛祖向須菩提說法，導信眾超越三界，渡向涅槃，以登極樂。