A large red lacquer bookcase Ming Dynasty

of clean rectangular form divided by two evenly spaced deep shelves, each section framed by a subtle lip around the exterior, above a plain apron on the front and two stretchers on the sides, the feet capped with metal fittings, the exterior covered in a rich lateritious lacquer imbued with a dense leather-like cracklure grain, juxtaposed to the warm tawny yellow lacquer on the interior with similar character, the underside further lacquered in yellow

The bookshelf is in overall good condition lacquered with beautifully textured red and yellow colors, expected chips along the edges stabilized; a few long scratches on the right side of the shelf with expected age cracks and chips, bottom stretchers broken off and repaired. Two 2cm - squared chips on the front of the middle shelf have flaked off and have been restored.
"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."

The wood frame of the bookcase is painted with an exterior layer of red lacquer and an interior layer of white lacquer.  Due to age, the lacquer naturally has taken on a yellow sheen, which under strong light makes it look golden, giving it even greater sense of court sumptuousness.  The bookcase is divided into three shelves, with the height of the legs matching that of the shelves, which only opens directly to the front.  Along the frame at the back between the shelves is an indented moulding at the corners of the bookcase.  The pairs of legs at the sides are equipped with stretchers, and the feet are covered with metal fittings.

This example of lacquerware craft belongs to the category "plain lacquer furniture."  Compared to other types of furniture, this bookcase is a relatively rare type.  Central to what makes it unusual is its specialized functionality, unlike that of chairs or tables that serve as the main practical furnishings that [can be moved around to] fill any open space.  Another reason is its rather fragile construction—difficult to preserve after so many years of use. 

See a similar larger red lacquer bookshelf with three fixed shelves decorated with gold tracery landscapes in the Palace Museum in Beijing is illustrated in Furniture of the Ming and Qing Dynasties (I), The Complete Collection of Treasures of the Palace Museum, Hong Kong, 2002, p. 218-220, no. 184 (fig. 1).  A Wanli mark and period black lacquer bookshelf with two fixed shelves and open side, finely painted with pairs of dragons on the interior and rocks and flowers on the reverse, is also illustrated in ibid. no. 186.