A 'HUANGHUALI' SQUARE TABLE WITH LOTUS-LEAF WAIST (FANGZHUO) LATE MING DYNASTY

the well-figured beaded top above a lotus-leaf-shaped carved waist and a wide scrolled beaded apron carved in relief with pairs of confronted dragons contesting flaming pearls, raised on four cabriole legs extending into a circular section and ending in drum-stool-shaped feet, all joined to the apron by four large arm braces carved in the form of lingzhi

The arm braces may have been replaced. There are several splits and small losses throughout which have been filled or restored. Three of the aprons have been reinforced by pegs. The top boards have shrunk slightly.
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 shape of this particular table is rare as it incorporates a number of features that distinguishes it from the more conventional and restrained Chinese designs. Nancy Berliner discusses a table of this type in Beyond the Screen: Chinese Furniture of the 16th and 17th Centuries, Boston, 1996, pp. 134-135, cat. no. 22. A similar table is illustrated in The Chuang Family Bequest of Fine Ming and Qing Furniture in the Shanghai Museum, Hong Kong, 1998, fig. 21, p. 60. Another similar example was sold in these rooms, 29th and 30th November 1993, lot 442.