A carved hardwood brushpot Qing Dynasty, 19th Century

of cylindrical form supported on three low feet, finely carved in intaglio with figures and horses on a tree-planted mountainous landscape inscribed with two poems, one celebrating how fast a legendary horse named Long Ju could run, while also describing the two carved horses on the brushpot, one standing, the second neighing, the second poem about a donkey crossing a small bridge alone while nibbling on flowers, the mouth rim encircled by a key-fret border, the wood of deep brown patina

Nicholas Grindley, London.

An edge crack starting from the footrim extending through the brushpot on 5 cm under the tree below the poem, another crack starting from the rim extending through the brushpot to the horse leashed by a figure; some edge cracks to the inside and some tiny dents to the rim.
"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."