showing five writhing chilong with leonine heads and curling tails, carved out against a ground of dense ruyi-form clouds, all confined within the outline of a large pebble, the stone of a pale gray-caramel color with amber splashes

There are minor nicks throughout, as well as a loss to the right ear of a chilong.
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.

A Ming dynasty example carved from tianhuang stone is illustrated in Gerard Tsang and Hugh Moss, The Literati Mode: Chinese Scholar Paintings, Calligraphy and Desk Objects, London, 1986,  no. 82.