朝鮮王朝十六 / 十七世紀 黑漆嵌螺鈿纏枝牡丹紋長方蓋盒

of rectangular form supported on a flat base, the cover shaped with two lobed trefoils forming handles on the largest sides, finely inlaid overall in iridescent sections of mother-of-pearl on a black lacquer ground with peony blossoms borne on continuous meandering leafy stems interspersed with dots, the edges of the cover finely outlined in mother-of-pearl

The cover lacquer is worn and the inlays tarnished, in commensuration with age. The box is comparatively in better condition with well preserved inlays and lacquer as can be expected since it benefited from the protection of the fitting cover. There are dents and chips of varied sizes, predominantly on the cover and along the corners. Several sections of mother of pearl inlays are missing on the cover and on the sides, including curling leaves and some flower petals (showing on the illustration in the catalogue). There are surface scratches on the cover and crackles to the lacquer ground. There is also some expected cracks and re-lacquering, predominantly along the corner edges. There are several areas of wormage along on the cover rim, the longest approx. 7 cm on a narrower side which would need to be stabilized. The interior is speckled with coppery-gold nashiji which is now somewhat tarnished. The mother of pearl inlays are less yellow, more white, compared to the catalogue illustration. The box comes with an old silk fabric pouch and fitted wooden box which has some chips and wormage.
"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."