A CARVED IVORY ‘LOTUS LEAF’ INKREST MING – QING DYNASTY

carved in the form of a furled lotus leaf with a budding flower, growing from a pair of intertwined stems opposite the bud, stand

Michael Weisbrod, New York, 1993.

Apart from typical age cracks and the light surface wear, the overall condition is very good.
"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 finely carved ivory piece, in the form of a lotus leaf, was primarily designed as an inkrest with the two severed stalks providing an ideal resting place for a brush. However, it may have also been used as a paperweight. It is a superb example of a series of small, well carved ivories made for the scholar’s studio that was designed to be multi-functional. The form of a lotus leaf and the bud together is full of auspicious connotation, with the many seeds found in the pod representing the wish for the continuation of the male line (lianzi).