A Reticulated Hardwood 'Scholar' Brushpot, Signed Xiaoshan Late Qing Dynasty, 19th Century

of an irregular cylindrical form, carved in various levels of relief with an old scholar, possibly Fu Sheng, holding a long staff and seated on a rock under a gnarled pine tree, next to steps leading up to a hut amidst a mountainous landscape, the continuous landscape interrupted by reticulated openings and an inscription of Fu Sheng's Boshi chuanjing signed by Xiaoshan, all supported on a base carved as a tree bark, the brushpot of a rich reddish-brown colour and the base of a dark brown tone

There are typical age cracks and surface wear to the brushpot. The separately carved section on the upper rim has two shallow scale chips of 1.5cm and 0.7cm. There is also a 1.5cm section that has been replaced. The interior has an old Chinese label.
"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."