Qi Baishi 1864-1957

signed Baishi, dated wuzi (in accordance with 1948), and with two seals of the artist, Bai Shi, and Wu Shao Qing Ping, and one collector's seal

Sotheby's New York, 23rd and 25th April 1987, lot 110.

slight toning to paper, medium halo around apllied red and pink pigments, a few scattered creases, the most notable in the candle, minor scattered faint spotting, scattered minor surface abrasions, not affecting image
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.

The depiction of mice with a burning candle was a popular subject for Qi Baishi, particularly during the latter part of his career. See a painting sold in our Hong Kong rooms, 29th October 1993, lot 949; and another also dated to 1948, sold in these rooms, 1st June 1988, lot 143. An album of eleven double-leaves including a single mouse looking up to the burning flame of a candle, was sold in our Hong Kong rooms, 15th November 1989, lot 64. A variation on this theme was the mice with oil lamp, such as the painting sold in these rooms, 2nd December 1992, lot 104; another in our Hong Kong rooms, 15th November 1990, lot 240; and a third also in our Hong Kong rooms, 18th May 1989.