清十七世紀 朱漆彩繪竹編「人物庭閣」圖長方蓋盒

of rectangular form with straight sides, the cover set with a horizontal panel enclosed in a lacquered basketwork frame, finely painted on a red lacquer ground with an assembly of scholars greeting the arrival of another dressed in a red robe while attendants are leading his horse or carrying his umbrella and qin away, meanwhile another scholar holding a flywhisk is waiting in a storeyed mansion with further figures conversing on a terrace above, all set within an idyllic landscape of jagged mountains and pavilions, the sides decorated with golden-brown lacquered basketwork panels enclosed in recessed quatrefoil panels against a red and black frame, the edges covered with gilt-lacquered metal mounts, the interior brightly painted on a black lacquer ground with four large swaying lotus and leaves and the faint silhouettes of two birds, one in flight, the other perched on a lotus pod, all carefully shaded and outlined in gold, the base lacquered red

The box is generally in good condition as visible on the catalogue photograph and the enamel have been well preserved. There is some typical vertical age crackling to the central painted scene as can be expected and in commensuration with age. There is some wear and a few minute dents to the sections of wicker and along the edges as well as minor age crackles to the corners. The box is also in good condition and the painted scene on the interior very striking and vibrant with some expected age crackling to the surface lacquer or occasional touch up to the black ground. The two birds enamelled in gold are a little faded as visible on the catalogue photo. The gilding covering the metal mounts applied on the edge of the box and of the cover is rubbed. The metal mount rail that was covering the top of the shorter side on the right of the box is detached and kept separately (showing on the catalogue photograph). All together a beautiful box, kept in very good condition considering the delicate material and refinement of the technique. The actual colours are somewhat deeper and more vibrant compared to the catalogue illustration.
"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."