宋至明 銅錯銀瑞獸鎮紙

the animal with its front paws extended and head tilted slightly backwards, its hind leg raised scratching its ear, its flowy mane, beard and tail finely inlaid with silver, zitan wood stand

曾柱昭及莫士撝，《文玩萃珍》，香港大學馮平山博物館， 香港，1986年，編號134

The paperweight is in overall good condition. With expected surface wear consistent of age and the handling of object. There are traces of black lacquer on the animal body and along its spine. There are also fine details of silver inlaid accentuating the mane and spine, which are still visible in areas. The carved zitan stand is old and very likely original to the paperweight. The zitan stand is generally in good condition with the exceptions of few expected chips to the ridges.
"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."

The distinct sculptural quality of this paperweight, its flat base and the silver-inlay technique, would point towards a Song dynasty dating.

For further discussions on the dating of the present piece, please refer to Gerard Tsang and Hugh Moss, Arts from the Scholar's Studio, Fung Ping Shan Museum, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 1986, cat. no. 134.