朝鮮王朝十六 / 十七世紀 黑漆嵌螺鈿牡丹紋盤

of circular form, robustly constructed resting on a flat base with thick rounded walls, inlaid on the interior in iridescent slivers of mother of pearl and pale brown sections of horn with a lush peony blossom surrounded by radiant serrate leaves, surrounded by floret medallions divided by scrolls inlaid in silver filigree on the interior walls and further scrolls between guilloches on the rim, the exterior inlaid in mother-of-pearl with stylised auspicious items including ingot, clappers and cornucopia

The tray is worn as expected, in commensuration with its age and the fragility of the material, but overall has been rather well preserved. There are some losses to the mother-of-pearl inlays on the interior and touch up repairs, but overall these are in rather good condition. The gold speckles on the black lacquer ground on the interior are somewhat rubbed but still visible in several areas. The silver wiring encircling the rim and on the interior is oxydised and slightly loose in one area on the interior rim but mainly intact too. There is a 2 by 1.3 cm dent to the black lacquer on the exterior, and further more minute dents or flakes, as well as wear and expected scratches to the underside, including a circular white stain. The actual colour is consistent with the catalogue illustration, if not slightly more dense and contrasted.
"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."