AN INSCRIBED ZITAN WRISTREST SIGNED ZIFENG, ZHUANG YUANZHI, QING DYNASTY, XIANFENG PERIOD, DATED TO THE JIAYIN YEAR (IN ACCORDANCE WITH 1854)

the convex surface engraved with a lishu inscription and dated in kaishu to the intercalary seventh month of the jiayin year of the Xianfeng era (1854), followed by an inscription reading Zuo'an sixiong ming ('composed by the Fourth Elder Brother from Zuo'an) and Zifeng Zhuang Yuanzhi bing kan ('engraved by Zifeng and Zhuang Yuangzhi), terminating with a seal mark reading Zifeng, the lower left with a further seal mark reading Shuangyanlou zhuren qingwan (‘For pure pleasure of the Master of the Pavilion of Paired Inkstones’), the inscription with traces of gold pigment

The wristrest is in overall good condition with surface wear and minor dents. There are also minute nicks and bruises to the edges, as well as some restored areas, possibly to conceal earlier flakes, the longest measuring approx. 2.1 cm to the upper right section of the vertical edge. The gold pigment in the engraved text is also worn.
"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."

The inscription on this piece suggests that the poem was composed by the Fourth Elder Brother from Zuo’an, in Jiangxi province, and engraved by Zifeng and Zhuang Yuangzhi. The poem may be translated as follows:

I shall let my uprightness be destroyed so my tile shape remains intact’ – such is the unique vow you have taken. If one bends one’s arm and leans on you, it is just right for calligraphy and just right for painting.