A large square-corner 'dragon'
display cabinet, Liang'ge gui

the upper display shelf framed by shaped aprons pierced with a frieze of archaistic dragons above and a balustrade below carved in relief with dragons among cloud scrolls, above a pair of panelled doors each carved in high relief with three scaly dragons pursuing a flaming pearl on a dense ground of cloud scrolls above a sea of wave splashed rocks, the doors opening to reveal the shelved interior with two drawers, all above a shaped, beaded apron carved with further dragons among clouds, above rocks and waves on the short splayed feet
189 cm high , 107 cm wide , 47 cm deep

• Lot Sold $3,000 (Hammer Price)
• $3,660 (Hammer Price with Buyer's Premium)

Literature

A pair of huanghuali display cabinets of this form with undecorated panelled doors, dated to the 17th/18th century, from the collection of Dr Sam and Annette Mandel, was sold Christie's, Hong Kong, 28 November 2012, lot 2018; a zitan square-corner cabinet and hat chest, dated to the mid Qing period, with similarly carved dragon decoration, is in the Palace Museum, Beijing, illustrated by Tian Jiaqing, Classic Chinese Furniture of the Qing Dynasty 1996, pl. no. 102

Condition Report

Some surface scuffing. The locks replaced. Possible adjustment to the drawer section on the interior.

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 Australia is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Saleroom Notices regarding this sale. NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS.