A Lacquer writing implement box and cover (suzuribako) Late 19th century

decorated in gold, silver and iro-e hiramaki-e, takamaki-e, kirigane and nashi-ji with two tancho cranes beside a stream under a pine tree on a ro-iro ground, the interior of the cover with pine, young bamboo reeds, plum blossoms (sho-chiku-bai) and three long-tailed turtles (minogame) in a continuous scene of a stream, pine, bamboo, and plum, 'Three Friends of Winter', on a nashi-ji ground, fitted with an ink stone, silver pinecone-shaped water dropper and a tray for brushes, with a box, bearing a label 'Shochikubai kin maki-e on suzuribako' Meiji 32 (corresponding to 1899) (2)

Christie's London, 4th July 1984, lot 364.

Four kirigane (very small cut gold sheet inlay) are missing on right edge on the pine tree of the cover. There is a slight surface crack to the right tray (upper right) in interior (1/4 in.). There are two tiny surface lacquer losses (1 x 2 mm) along the opening to hold the inkstone on the left base (interior), otherwise in very good condition.
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.