明十六 / 十七世紀 剔紅題詩「松下達摩」圖蓋盒

of cylindrical form, deftly carved overall in varied levels of relief through layers of cinnabar lacquer, the cover with Bodhidharma seated in meditation below a pine tree, the bearded sage dressed in a monastic cowl, depicted from three quarter and chest length against a ground of floral diapers, the underside carved with two Daoist immortals seated on a rocky outcrop below an arched wutong tree, one of them examining a scroll, the sides inscribed in high relief with a Poem by the Northern Song poet Wei Ye titled Xun Ren Zhe Bu Yu ('Pursuit of the Recluse'), in running script against floral diapers, the interior lacquered black

The raised characters around the sides of the box and cover have some small expected chips, a few of which have been restored and retouched. The overall condition is otherwise quite good with the exception of some age cracks.
"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 poem by Wei Ye pertains to the pursuit of the zhenren, the spiritual ideal of Daoism, and the beautiful and tranquil senerity that can thus been achieved through this.