A HUANGHUALI AND HUAMU SQUARE-CORNER CABINET (FANGJIAOGUI) QING DYNASTY, 18TH CENTURY

the rectangular form of standard miter, mortise and tenon construction, with huanghuali veneer to the side and front panels, each door inset with one circular and two rectangular nanmu burlwood panels within beaded and canted-corner frames, separated by a removable central stile, above a rectangular frame enclosing three further burlwood panels within beaded and shaped inner frames, supported on square-section posts joined by a plain spandreled apron, the interior with two shelves over two drawers, baitong rectangular hinges, lockplates and openwork pulls

There are patch repairs to the veneer, particularly along the corners and sides. The feet are quite worn and have repaired splits. It is likely that the spandreled aprons are replaced. The interior shelves, drawers and back panels are of soft wood and the back panels have some splitting. The interior and exterior are covered in a type of clear varnish that is turning cloudy.
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 present cabinet is a good example of a particular type using huanghuali veneer and inset with either huamu or sometimes dalishi marble. By combining different woods, the craftsman could simultaneously highlight the distinctive qualities of each and create a pleasing, well-balanced composition with the rounded insets of attractively figured burlwood offsetting the angularity of the massive form. A cabinet of the same size and and inlay composition but with white marble, was sold in these rooms, 28th September 1989, lot 305. A cabinet with burlwood inlay and with its hat chest was also sold in these rooms, 1st June 1994, lot 563. The cabinet is considered the pair to one in the Collection of Arthur M. Sackler that was sold at Christie's New York, 18th March 2009, lot 367.