A CARVED BAMBOO 'QIAO SISTERS' BRUSH POT QING DYNASTY, 18TH CENTURY |

the cylindrical body of gently waisted form and resting on three short feet, the exterior carved in low relief with the Qiao sisters, one depicted seated on a daybed, the other on a low stool, both reading from a single book, each figure portayed dressed in long flowing robes, the background with a table decorated with a teapot, cup, incense burner and tools and a gu vessel issuing a bouquet, the bamboo patinated to a rich reddish-brown colour

The brushpot is in very good condition, with only expected cracks to the base and minute nicks to the rim, consistent with its 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. 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 brush pot, rendered with the popular scene of the two Qiao sisters, represents the height of bamboo carving in the late Ming and early Qing periods. The Qiao sisters in Chinese history became legendary for their beauty and for marrying two famous war heroes. They were the daughters of the official Qiao Xuan (109-83) of the late Han dynasty, with one marrying the warlord Sun Ce, and the other marrying Sun’s close friend, General Zhou Yu.