A RARE GILT-BRONZE 'DRAGON' CENSER WITH HANDLES MARK AND PERIOD OF XUANDE

raised on a slightly splayed foot, the compressed globular body flanked by a pair of mythical animal mask handles, the exterior superbly cast in high relief with two ferocious dragons leaping amongst swirling clouds, the dragons with fierce gaze, flowing mane, and powerful claws, all above a countersunk base cast with a six-character reign mark within a recessed rectangular panel, fitted with a later Japanese openwork cover

The censer is in overall very good condition except for some typical dents to the body, surface scratches, as well as expected wear to the gilding. There are traces of colour pigments, especially to one of the handles.
"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."

In its decoration, the dynamic scene of dragons amidst clouds on bronze is a Xuande innovation; see a closely related example included in the Oriental Ceramic Society of Hong Kong exhibition Arts from the Scholar's Studio, Fung Ping Shan Museum, Hong Kong, 1986, cat. no. 139. Its vigorous depth of casting and style is related to carved lacquer of the period. Compare also a censer of this type, with a Xuande reign mark and possibly of the period, included in the exhibition The Second Bronze Age. Later Chinese Metalwork, Sydney L. Moss Ltd., London, 1991, cat. no. 44.