- 11
A CARVED IVORY 'DRAGON' SEAL AND COVER 17TH CENTURY
Estimate
6,000 - 8,000 GBP
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Description
- ivory
of square form, undercut and pierced with an interlocking scroll band , incised to the seal face with the first phrase of a famous couplet by Ouyang Xiu reading shu you wei ceng jing wo du ('Among the numerous books in the world, there are some which I have not read'), the cover carved with a horned dragon clambering atop, the ivory of creamy tone
Condition
The seal has prominent age cracks running parallel along the top and sides with one of the cracks running into the seal face. There are general nibbling along the edges of the carving and minor rubbing to the patina. The smaller compartment of the seal could possibly have contained further smaller seals originally which have now been lost.
"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."
"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."