Two Japanese silver mounted ivory, lacquer and shibyama folding table screens, Meiji period, circa 1900

lacquered to the exterior of the first in black and gold with birds among blossom trees, the interior applied in hardstone and mother-of-pearl with cranes and swallows on a gold lacquered mountainous ground, signed, the ivory borders carved with scrolls, silver embellished hinges and corners; the second ivory example carved to the exterior with Japanese geishas on mountainous ground, signed, the interior panels applied profusely with shibyama decoration depicting various birds among chrysanthemum and blossom trees, foliate carved borders, silver embellished corners and hinges

The first (lacquered example) - Generally very good condition. Two small losses to shibyama leaves on left interior panel, two flower-heads possibly replaced. One small leaf absent to flower on bottom right-hand panel. Lacquered exterior still good. The second (carved example) - Ivory slightly discoloured to exterior, no cracks or splits. Interior shibyama is very good; one duck head on left-hand panel is missing, one flowerhead (below birds) is absent. otherwise very 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."