naturalistically modelled seated with its legs tucked underneath its plump body, the upper half of the body forming the cover perfectly fitted along the scalloped edges on the box, its head turned to one side and detailed with rounded eyes and a short beak, the body detailed with plumage and the claws with fine stippling, all supported on green-stained leafy millet stems around the legs and claws, the interior hollowed with a double-gourd-shaped aperture, wood stand

A private collection, acquired in London prior to 1980.

There are age cracks, bruises and surface wear as visible in the catalogue photo. There are minor areas of restoration. The box and cover are otherwise in overall good condtion.
"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."

Another ivory box and cover carved in the form of a quail, from the Qing Court collection, preserved in the Palace Museum, Beijing, is illustrated in The Complete Collection of Treasures of the Palace Museum. Bamboo, Wood, Ivory and Rhinoceros Horn Carving, Hong Kong, 2002, pl. 167. See also a pair of similar carved ivory 'quail' boxes and covers sold in our London rooms, 10th November 2010, lot 12.