A RARE DATED 'QIANGJIN' AND 'TIANQI' LACQUER 'DRAGON' BOX AND COVER WANLI MARK AND PERIOD, DATED JIACHEN YEAR, CORRESPONDING TO 1604 |

of square form with canted corners, the cover decorated in polychrome lacquer and gilt incisions with two five-clawed dragons in three quarter view, one in red, the other in black, contesting a 'flaming pearl' above turbulent waves and amidst cloud scrolls, all reserved on a diaper ground, the rounded sides with recessed panels incised with peony sprays framed by ruyi meanders below and to the corners, the box similarly decorated, the interiors and base lacquered red, the base incised and gilt with an inscription reading Da Ming Wanli jiachen nian zhi, corresponding to 1604, Japanese wood box (4)  

Nagatani, Inc., Chicago, 2nd July 1951. 
Collection of Stephen Junkunc, III (d. 1978). 

The box and cover have restoration to small chips and minute nicks along the rims and corners; the largest being an approx. 4 cm section of the foot rim. The rims of the box and cover have been re-lacquered. The surface with expected wear and age cracks, consistent with age.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.