Lot 1118. A large bamboo root seal, 18th-19th century; 5 ½ in. (14 cm.) high. Estimate USD 5,000 - USD 7,000. Price realised USD 4,000. © Christie's Image Ltd 2016.

The naturally formed seal is of irregular shape with protrusions, striations and nodules. The seal-face is carved with a phrase from the The Chinese Code of Success: Maxims by Zhuzi, which may be translated as 'even though the coming generations are of lesser intellect, it is indispensible [for them] to study'.

Provenance: By repute: David Kidd (1926-1996) Collection, Japan.

Note: The text of the inscription comes from an article written by Zhu Bolu (Zhuzi [1627-1698]), a Ming dynasty scholar. It was meant as an instruction to his own descendants, but has become a guide for later generations of Chinese for conduct in their homes, at the workplace, and in society.

Christie's. THE IAN AND SUSAN WILSON COLLECTION OF SCHOLAR'S OBJECTS, 17 March 2016, New York, Rockefeller Plaza