of square columnar form, the upper section of the seal skilfully carved in the form of three lions, one depicted prowling with the left front leg striding forward, the largest beast rendered climbing atop a slope with its head turned back towards its cub playfully escalading its back, the seal face carved with an eight-character seal excerpt from Su Shi's poem about the prunus and bamboo from the 'Three Friends' and reading Mei han er xiu zhu shou er shou ('cold prunus is elegant, slim bamboo is everlasting'), the stone of a variegated warm amber-honey colour with translucent white inclusions

In very good condition except a polished flake along one edge on the side and other minute flakes to the extremities. There is a horizontal russet vein running across the rear of one beast.
"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."