A carved stone head of a luohan Ming dynasty

the face with narrow eyes beneath arched brows, the plump cheeks flanked by a pair of long ears, depicted with a gentle smile, metal stand

Galerie Moreau Gobard, Paris, acquired in the 1970s.

This head is in average condition in that the nose has sustained a large triangular chip (4cm by 4cm). There is also a chip to the upper and middle areas of the left ear and the lower and upper areas of the right ear. There is also a 11cm by 8cm area of shallow damage to the forehead and a 1.7cm and 1.3cm area of damage behind this. There is also a 3cm by 2cm chip to the back of the head and an area of abrasion around this.
"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."