A ROOTWOOD SCROLLPOT LATE MING / QING DYNASTY

the irregularly shaped body modelled with walls of unequal thickness and conforming with the natural form of a tree trunk, the textured exterior accentuated with burls and whorls of varying sizes, the patina of a warm reddish-brown colour

As expected of a scrollpot of this large size, and in keeping with its domestic use, there are typical bruises, cracks and minor losses to the exterior, the most severe a shallow flake measuring approx. 2.2 cm to the rim. There are also typical age cracks as expected.
"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."

This piece is made of a natural piece of gnarled, knotted wood. The irregular shape and the rough texture conform to the taste for fantastic and bizarre forms found in nature that is revered by the literati. It is then enhanced by craftsmen to become a suitable accoutrement for the scholar’s study, in this case, as a scrollpot.