A Fine Huanghuali painting table (Pingtiaoan) 17th century

the rectangular top with molded edge, inset with a floating panel, above plain arched apron brackets and four slightly splayed legs of circular section, each end with a pair of horizontal stretchers of oval section, the wood of reddish-brown

scattered ink-stains and water-stains to top, scattered dings, scratches and abrasions, 3 inch crack to one end, repaired break along one side of top at corner, repaired narrow 22 inch long break to the underside of one long edge, minor losses and some fill to feet
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.

Tables of this form are among the most 'classic' of Chinese classical furniture. Considered an important addition to the scholar's studio, the ample proportions and sturdy constuction with minimal ornamentation, allows for maximum workspace without concerns of snagging clothing or cramped seating while reading, writing, or painting. A woodblock illustration from the Kangxi period, showing a scholar at a similar table surrounded by the necessities of his art, is illustrated in Wang Shixiang and Curtis Evarts, Masterpieces from the Museum of Classical Chinese Furniture, Hong Kong, 1995, p. 116.

For a similar, slightly wider table, attributed to the 16th/17th century, see Splendor of Style: Classical Furniture from the Ming and Qing Dynasties, Taipei, 1999, p. 143.  See also a similar table, attributed to the 17th century, illustrated in Robert D. Jacobsen with Nicholas Grindley, Classical Chinese Furniture in the Minneapolis Institute of Arts, Minneapolis, 1999, no. 40, pp. 122-123.  Compare also the table from the collection of Mr. and Mrs. Howard K. Lee, sold in these rooms, 25th April 1987, lot 514, and another, sold at Christie's New York 21st September 2004, lot 34.