ink on silk, fully written in small kaishu characters with selected texts from the book Zhongyong (Doctrine of the Mean), comprising over twenty-nine thousand characters

The silk is still soft and supple, but there are tears and losses (especially to the upper edge and to the right half of the sheet). The fabric has darkened and stained with age, but the majority of the characters are still legible.
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.