AN ARCHAISTIC CLOISONNE BOX AND COVER MARK AND PERIOD OF QIANLONG

modelled after an archaistic xu vessel of oval form, the turquoise ground body enamelled with a wide band of stylised archaistic patterns above three thin bands encircling the flared foot with two notched openings, the narrow sides set with a pair of gilt loop handles issuing from the mouth of a horned beast, the cover decorated on top with four pairs of archaistic taotie masks encircled by four gilt archaistic dragon flanges set on the corners forming the 'feet' when the cover is inverted, the interior and base gilded, the base cast with a four-character mark

The box and cover are in very good condition overall. There are characteristic pinprick burst air bubbles, some of which have been filled in. The interiors and base may have been regilded. The colours are quite accurately depicted in the catalogue.
"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."

It is rare to find Qing cloisonné censers of this unusual xu form although a closely related vessel, from the Qing Court collection and still in Beijing, is illustrated in The Complete Collection of Treasures from the Palace Museum. Metal-bodied Enamel Ware, Hong Kong, 2002, pl. 116, and also in Zhongguo meishu fenlei quanji. Zhongguo jinying poli falanqi quanji, vol. 6, Shijiazhuang, 2002, pl. 8.

For the inspiration of this censer see a Western Zhou bronze xu published in Zhongguo qingtongqi quanji, vol. 5, pl. 81, in the Shanghai Museum.