明十七世紀 黃花梨條桌

a single board set within a mitered frame of mortise and tenon construction and secured by three transverse stretchers on the underside, with a recessed waist surmounting a plain apron and supported on four legs of square section terminating in hoof feet, the wood of a honey-brown color

C.L. Ma，香港，2003

There is some shrinkage of the top panel and there is an oval shaped patch on the frame. The joints are a bit loose.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The elegant and economical design of the present table represents the best of classic Ming taste.  The spare strong lines convey the rigor and discipline required of the scholar but the rich graining and warm color of the dense resinous hardwood add a sumptuous touch alluding to the luxuries available to the elite.  

Compare a similar waisted side table illustrated in Robert Ellsworth, Chinese Furniture: Hardwood Examples of the Ming and Early Ch'ing Dynasties, New York, 1970, no. 66; and recently sold examples, one in these rooms 15th September 2010, lot 34 and another in our London rooms 7th November 2012, lot 297.