A GOOD 'HUANGHUALI' SQUARE TABLE WITH 'GIANT'S ARM BRACES' 17TH CENTURY

the square panel top with molded edges, above a waisted section, supported on a straight apron with curved corners continuing down to straight square legs terminating in hoof feet, accentuated with beaded edges, the interior of the legs set with huanghuali 'giant's arm braces', the wood of light brown color with fine patina

There is a 1 1/2 in. wide strip replaced to insert panel on top, and several old patches of restoration throughout the table. The joinage with some shrinkage and minor splits. The feet are cut down and were later converted to hoof 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.

The 'giant's arm braces', as seen on the underside of the present table, are significant elements of the construction that allow the furniture-maker the option of omitting the more common stretchers that are otherwise necessary for structural stability. For practical reasons, these braces also allow for more sitting room under the table.

Compare a very similar huanghuali table, attributed to the late 16th / early 17th century, illustrated in Wang Shixiang and Curtis Evarts, Masterpieces from the Museum of Classical Furniture, Hong Kong, 1995, pl. 47. A woodblock print by Yue Lu Yin from the Wanli period is reproduced op.cit., p. 47, to demonstrate interior uses for tables of this type during the late Ming period. A zitan and yingmu square table with similar construction from the Mimi and Raymond Hung Collection is illustrated in Chinese Furniture: One Hundred Examples from the Mimi and Raymond Hung Collection, New York, 1996, pl. 56, pp. 144-145.