§ A VERY FINELY MOTHER OF PEARL INLAID TRAY OF NATURALISTIC SHAPE VIETNAM, TONKIN, NAM DINH, LATE NGUYEN DYNASTY, CIRCA 1880-1900 It is very finely carved and shaped as the ‘Three Abundances’ (Sān Duō - 三多), i.e. the pomegranate, the peach and the fingered citron, together with a bat. The base is also finely carved with branches and leaves. It is very finely inlaid with a naval battle scene as well as a crab, a fish and lotus pond, amidst others. The craftsman used the variety of colors of the mother of pearl to introduce a polychromy. $ MỘT KHAY KHẢM NGỌC TRAI RẤT TINH XẢO CÓ HÌNH DÁNG TỰ NHIÊN VIỆT NAM, BẮC KỲ, NAM ĐỊNH, CUỐI TRIỀU NHÀ NGUYỄN, VÀO KHOẢNG 1880-1900 Note: The Three Abundances consists of the peach ( longevity), the pomegranate (descendants or progeny) and the citron (happiness and longevity). Additionally, ‘a bat descending from the sky’ (fuzi tianlai - 蝠子天来) sounds exactly like ‘happiness descends from heaven’ (fuzi tianlai - 福子天来). §Bidders should be advised that importation regulations of several countries, including the US, prohibits the importation of ivory and that of coral, or any goods containing same. Therefore Adams advises prospective purchasers who intend to ship lots containing either ivory or other specimen that fall under CITES regulation, to another country to familiarize themselves with the relevant importation regulations prior to bidding. Adams will not be responsible for shipping items herein and the onus will be on the buyer to organize shipping at their own behest. NOTE: CONDITION REPORTS AND MEASUREMENTS It is up to the bidder to satisfy themselves prior to buying as to the condition of a lot. In relation to Condition Reports, whilst we make certain observations on the lot, which are intended to be as helpful as possible, references in the condition report to damage or restoration are for guidance. The absence of such a reference does not imply that an item is free from defects or restoration, nor does a reference to particular defects imply the absence of any others. The condition report is an expression of opinion only and must not be treated as a statement of fact. Measurements and weight are approximate and the potential bidder may re-ask it to be checked when asking for a condition report.