AN UNUSUAL MOTHER-OF-PEARL INLAID LACQUER TRAY MING DYNASTY, 16TH CENTURY

of rectangular shape with straight steep sides, the interior inlaid with a landscape scene of cranes beneath lush vegetation including pine, paulownia and bamboo beside a lake with hills rising gently in the distance, some cranes resting, some grazing, some grooming themselves, and others flying, the sides decorated with leafy fruiting and flowering sprays of peach, pomegranate, peony, chrysanthemum, lily and pink, the exterior decorated to each side with a lobed panel enclosing pairs of cranes flying amid cloud swirls, the base lacquered black  

There are small expected losses to the inlay on the interior, the largest covering an area of approx 0.2 by 0.2cm. There are also expected age cracks and minor surface wear to the interior. There are small chips and nibbles to the rim, the largest approx 0.1 by 0.1cm. To the exterior, there are similar small losses to the inlay, and surface wear to the base, but otherwise the piece is generally in good condition overall.
"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."