- 27
Chinese musical instruments.
Estimate
2,000 - 3,000 GBP
Log in to view results
bidding is closed
Description
- Collection of 24 early nineteenth-century drawings of Chinese musical instruments
- paper and watercolour
by an unnamed Chinese artist, in watercolour and gouache, on Chinese paper, rectos only, each drawing captioned in English in ink by an unidentified English traveller and musician ("...Yee-yine. This Instrument I learn't to play on, it has two Strings and is tuned in fifths[.] [T]he great difficulty to affect a tune on it is on account of having no fingerboard[,] you must press the Strings very hard and draw the bow lightly it is a very troublesome Instrument to play on - I have performed 4 of their Tunes as well as many English airs on it. And I have played on it in one of their Bands..."), including a fine ensemble drawing of nine musicians entitled "Mandarins' Concert", 24 leaves, large 4to (c.28.8 x 44cm), no place or date [China, early nineteenth century], general discolouration to the ensemble drawing, light discolouration to margins of the other drawings, some worming
Condition
Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, where appropriate.
"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."
Catalogue Note
A fine and unusual collection of drawings by a Chinese artist of Chinese musical instruments, including (in the original orthography) of the "pee-pa" (lute), "yee-yine", "chung", "chow-chee" ("much esteemed...Woman[']s Instrument"), "apshee" and "chong" (copper cup).