清光緒 《導養正性》書法 水墨紙本 《慈禧皇太后御筆之寶》印

ink on paper, with a four-character inscription reading Daoyang zhengxing (Guidance to the natural instincts), with a seal reading Cixi Huang Taihou yubi zhi bao (Treasure in the Imperial Hand of the Empress Dowager), mounted on silk

This work is in reasonably good condition, but does have numerous vertical and horizontal creases some of which have cracked the surface of the work.
"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."

「導養」指調養，而「正性」即天賦平正之本性。頤和園佛香閣山門檐下的匾額亦有題上此四個大字，圖見《北京名匾》，北京，1996年。