琉球王國十八世紀 黑漆嵌螺鈿「梅下嬰戲」圖長方蓋盒

of rectangular form, the cover inlaid in mother of pearl on a dark brown lacquer ground with three boys at play around a large blossoming prunus tree, one of them clambering on the trunk while another stands on a stool grasping one of the branches, throwing blossoms to a third boy standing on the ground with raised hands, the upper right corner inscribed with a poem in running script, the interior lacquered in red

There is some light pitting and fading to the black lacquer on the cover. As expected several sections of mother of pearl inlays are replaced (showing on the catalogue illustration), including sections on the boys garments, the head of the boy grasping a branch and of the one clambering in the tree, as well as small sections of the tree trunk. There are ink-stains on the interior.
"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."