of quatrefoil form, the cover finely carved with Magu and her acolytes preparing a celebration amidst an idyllic mountainous landscape detailed with an overhanging pine tree, pavilion and two recumbent deer, with further acolytes travelling across the swirling waves on a shaft with a peach, the sides with cartouches of floral blooms and leaves divided by the bajixiang emblems, all reserved against diaper grounds, the interiors and base lacquered black

This deftly carved box and cover are in generally good condition, with the exception of some minor cracks and nicks with associated losses to the lacquer, and some retouching to the lacquer in various areas, in particular to the rims, interiors and the base of the box. The cover is slightly uneven.
"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."

A polychrome lacquer box of similar shape, carved to the top with bats, cranes and peaches, in the Palace Museum, Beijing, is illustrated in Gugong Bowuyuan Cang Diaoqi/Carved Lacquer In The Collection Of The Palace Museum, Beijing, 1995, pl. 328.