A NATURAL-FORM BAMBOO-ROOT SEAL QING DYNASTY, 18TH CENTURY

of square section, surmounted by a cluster of intertwining bamboo-roots meandering sinuously in various directions, the seal face carved with a four-character inscription reading Dongshan Shijia ('the distinguished family of Dongshan')

Lai Loy & Son, Hong Kong, 1986.

Another bamboo-root seal in which the carver has skilfully retained the natural form of the grain, is in the Shanghai Museum, illustrated in Literati Spirit. Art of Chinese Bamboo Carving, Shanghai, 2001, cat. no. 79, where the authors note that it was carved by a certain Pan Xifeng, who was active in the Qianlong period.

The texture of the bamboo root and pronounced angular shape of the seal is also closely related to that on an Imperial bamboo seal carved to record the Qianlong Emperor's appreciation of the Yuanmingyuan, sold in these rooms, 9th October 2007, lot 333.

There is a minute loss to the tip of the highest root stems. At the base, there are minute nicks. Otherwise good condition.
"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."