Coffret en zitan, guanpixiang Dynastie Qing, XVIIIE siècle

le couvercle aux angles adoucis formant un grand compartiment, avec un fermoir en tête de ruyi sur une plaque circulaire, au-dessus de deux ventaux s'ouvrant par des ferrures en double-carpes stylisées découvrant quatre tiroirs de différentes tailles, les côtés ornés d'anses semi-sphériques en métal, base postérieure

With Robert Hatfield Ellsworth, New York.
Acquired from Robert Hatfield Ellsworth, New York, 13th September 1975.

The seal chest is in overall good condition. The fittings that hold the mounts and hinges in place on the back of the doors and lid have been reinforced and filled in to be flush with the surrounding wood. There are some minor areas where gaps have been filled (mostly along the joints). There is an area of loss to the wood on the right hand side of the cabinet where the upper hinge is attached to the side of the chest. The base plate is a later replacement as are possibly some of the bases of the drawers. The colour of the wood is of a richer, darker tone than the catalogue illustration suggests with some pieces of gold-flecked zitan.
"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."