A Small Bamboo 'Scholar and Pine' Group Carving Qing Dynasty, Jiading School, 18th / 19th Century

finely carved in openwork, depicting a scholar on a rocky promontory holding a branch of chrysanthemum, leaning against the root of an aged pine tree bearing clusters of needles, next to sprays of lingzhi issuing from the ground, the root of pale golden brown colour

There is a chip to the tip of the pine tree, with the tip-end section missing.
"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."

This carving illustrates the poem Guilai quxi ci ('Returning home') written by the Eastern Jin dynasty scholar Tao Yuanming (ca. 365-427) upon retiring from his official position, referring to the verses Sanjingjiuhuang, songjuyoucun ('Gone to seed, perhaps, are my garden paths, but there will still be the chrysanthemums and the pine'). Another carving depicting the same subject, by Deng Fujia, in the collection of the Shanghai Museum, was included in the Museum's Exhibition Literati Spirit, Art of Chinese Bamboo Carving, Shanghai, 2012, no. 033 and cover image.