A ZITAN BARREL-FORM DRUM STOOL (ZUODUN) QING DYNASTY, 18TH / 19TH CENTURY

the circular floating panel top within a beveled edge mitered frame carved with a row of bosses, above six  bowed  double cushion-molded supports enclosing double-bound S-curved brackets joined to C-scrolls at the base and top, a further series of bosses encircling the base, all supported on six low bracket feet

Sotheby's New York, 23rd March 1999, lot 59.

The stool is missing its transverse stretcher. There has been a general consolidation to the joints. Some of the S-form spandrels have had repairs and are loose. The surface with expected wear from use.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

This stool represents the evolution of a classic form originally derived from a Shang dynasty bronze drum used for ritual ceremonies having convex sides and studs encircling the rims. By the Ming dynasty, the archaic form appears in both porcelain and hardwood adapted for use as a stool. The rounded sides and imitation bosses remain a constant in the many variations of the form.  Qing dynasty versions, such as the present, retain the basic elements but tend to be a little more ornate as exemplified by the scrolling spandrels of the present example.  An identical pair is illustrated in Chenyang Cai, Zitan, The Most Noble Hardwood, Taiwan, 1996, pp. 26-27. Another identical pair sold in these rooms, 2nd June 1993, lot 520.