of square section surmounted by a finely carved archaistic bird, one side incised with the date wuwu dong shi yue (wuwu year tenth month) followed by the signature Qi Tang zuo (made by Qi Tang), the face carved with seven characters in archaic script reading qi wei gong ming shi du shu (begin reading only out of pure pleasure), the stone of an even beige color with opaque white inclusions

With age-approprate wear and some minor nicks along the edges of the seal face, otherwise in overall 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.
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.

Qi Tang is the sobriquet of Zhang Yanchang (1738-1814).  According to the Zhongguo meishujia renming cidian (Dictionary of Chinese Artists' Names), Shanghai, 1985, p. 877. Zhang was a painter, calligrapher and seal carver, active during the Qianlong and Jiaqing periods.  He was a student of Ding Jing, a famous seal carver.