明 銅童子騎牛像

the young boy dressed in a tunic with a kerchief secured around his head, hands posed and pierced to hold a 'rope' that was likely attached a ring that once went through the pierced nose of the recumbent water buffalo

There is a rectangular patch on the buffalo's belly and a small patch on the rear left leg. There is a minute hole on the left haunch just beside the tail. There are minor nicks and other signs of age-appropriate wear.
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.

A boy and water buffalo is a popular motif in Chinese art, often seen in jade carvings, and has significance in the Chan Buddhist tradition, where the image represents the practitioner's progression in their practice.