AN IMPERIAL EDICT DATED QIANLONG 26TH YEAR, CORRESPONDING TO 1761

mounted as a handscroll, made from five sections of different colored brocade woven with a cloud pattern, inscribed in Chinese and Manchurian, the Chinese reading from right to left and the Manchurian from left to right, the opening section woven with two dragons flanking the characters fengtian gaoming (imperial mandate of heaven), repeated in the Manchurian section, with one imperial seal reading zhi gao zhi bao (the edict seal) in Chinese

Acquired in the 1930s and thence by descent.

 

 

Overall the edges are frayed with small tears. The first section with separation, and there is wear, staining and fading to the brocade. There is slight wear to the pigment and one scroll end is 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.
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.

The edict confers upon a lady of the Zhang family, a promotion to the rank of Furen, which was an honor given to the wives of second rank officials and above.