A pair of embellished black lacquer plaques Qing dynasty, 19th century

each of stepped rectangular form, inlaid in jade, polychrome painted bone and ivory on the black ground, one with a central vase of peony and other flowers, surrounded by archaistic bi discs, a miniature landscape with chilong, boys playing around a Buddhist lion, and a vase holding a halberd and auspicious objects; the other with a central vase of chrysanthemum and other flowers surrounded by an elephant carrying a vase on its back, a vase holding similar auspicious objects, a persimmon, a ruyi sceptre, a recumbent horse with a monkey on its back, and a figure seated beneath a pine tree conjuring a boy with a lotus flower, all within the cinnabar lacquer frame carved with flowers and angular scrolls

(2)
67 x 96.5 cm

• Lot Sold $26,000 (Hammer Price)
• $31,720 (Hammer Price with Buyer's Premium)

Condition Report

Both plaques have scattered paler spots over the black lacquer ground, possibly foxing. Both have some surface wear to the polychrome painting

One has a small repair to the cord of the pendant lower left.

The other has a possible small chip where the cord meets the tassle on the bi disc bottom right.

Otherwise generally good condition. There are possible losses to the tips of one or two branches.

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.