A SUPERBLY INLAID ZITAN 'FLOWERS OF THE FOUR SEASONS' BRUSHPOT 17TH CENTURY

supported on four low feet, each side elegantly carved with a cartouche inlaid with semi-precious stones including malachite, carnelian and amber, one side with a spray of white orchids and lingzhi sprigs with a butterfly hovering above, the second with a gnarled flowering tree, the third with branches of chrysanthemum stemming from a jagged rock, and the last with a gnarled prunus tree and small stalks of bamboo, the wood of a rich dark-brown colour streaked with gold and russet veining

Overall good condition. The inlays have been generally well preserved with only minor nicks and occasional refixes (e.g. the bottom of the begonia panel). There are expected age cracks with a few small refills to the edges (especially to the bottom right of the orchid panel and the top right of the begonia panel) and the base.
"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."

A slightly larger zitan square brushpot, similarly inlaid with gems forming a design of flowers and insects, from the Qing court collection and still in Beijing, is illustrated in The Complete Collection of Treasures of the Palace Museum: Bamboo, Wood, Ivory and Rhinoceros Horn Carvings, Shanghai, 2001, pl. 237. Compare also a zitan brushpot of this shape and related design sold in these rooms, 28th April 1992, lot 285.