AN INSCRIBED 'DUAN' INKSTONE WITH A DEDICATORY WOOD BOX QING DYNASTY, 18TH / 19TH CENTURY

the deep purplish-brown stone skillfully carved using its natural shape and inclusions to form rocky cliffs, one side with a shallow depression of irregular shape with a beaded edge frame, the reverse with a tall pine tree, the gnarled branches with clusters of pine needles, the sides left 'naturally' unfinished to resemble craggy rock formations, inscribed Xiangquan zhenzang ('from the precious collection of Xiangquan'), the fitted box of zitan, titled on cover titled Mo tian ('Ink Field') and inscribed Xinyu ren xiong zhengwan, di Shuzuo ('respectfully made by Shuzuo for Xinyu')

Collection of Pu Ru (by repute).

Arts from the Scholar's Studio, Fung Ping Shan Museum, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 1986, cat. no. 162.

The inkstone is in very good condition. There are some light scratches on the inside of the box.
"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."

Gerard Tsang and Hugh Moss in Arts from the Scholar's Studio, Hong Kong, 1986, p. 186, raise the possibility that this inkstone was owned by Pu Ru (1896-1963) whose courtesy name was Xinyu. Pu Ru, a native of Beijing and cousin to the last emperor Pu Yi, was a painter, calligrapher and poet. The identity of Xiangquan or Shuzuo remains unknown, however, the piece is of age which suggests that it came into Pu Ru's possession some time after it was made.