Manuscript map

655 x 1030mm., manuscript map, watercolour, pen and ink on paper, 5 manuscript notes in Chinese on red paper pasted on, red cloth backing with label with Chinese label, minor restoration and staining

All Under Heaven 23

Condition is described in the main body of the catalogue, where approrpira
"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."

A manuscript map possibly created to accompany an official report. "This map reports on improvements that the high official Zeng Guofan (1811-1872) made to Qing naval forces in the years 1869-1871. After engineering the Qing defeat of the Taipeng Rebellion (1851-1864), which ravaged the Yangzi river valley and nearly toppled the Manchu dynasty, Zeng sought to rebuild the region and strengthen China's infrastructure and defences. This map documents his addition of two naval brigades to Qing riverine forces based around Lake Tai (Taihu), a large freshwater lake in Jiangsu province. The lengthy inscription that follows the map's title outlines the Lake Tai Right Battalion's (Taihu youying) jurisdiction and describes its geography. Red notes attached to the map describe the garrisons and the areas over which they have charge" (All Under Heaven).