Xu Shiying

signed XU SHIYING, dated 1938, inscribed, with a dedication, and two seals of the artist

-Light foxing at the bottom and creases can be found on the couplet, which can be improved by restoration. Otherwise, generally in fair to 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."

上款：「寒操」即梁寒操（1899-1975），廣東高要人，歷任國民政府要職。詩才卓著，有「高要才子」之稱，與文藝界淵源甚深，屢為諸家書畫題跋，並得貽贈作品極夥。

註：許世英，晚清累官至山西布政使。入民國，歷任內務總長、交通總長、內閣總理，三六年出使東瀛。一九三八年夏，時抗戰方酣，許氏剛卸大使職返國，與梁寒操漢口相遇，遂書此廿一言長聯，內容及治世處身之道，並錄長跋，述其源起，以償其多年索寫之願。