A BRONZE 'SHOULAO' INCENSE BURNER 17TH CENTURY

cast in two parts, in the form of a joyful Shoulao riding his stag, and painted in polychrome enamels with gold details, the God of Longevity with his characteristically exaggerated forehead and long beard wearing a loose patterned robe of floral medallions, seated on his animal companion holding a scroll in his left hand while clutching a ruyi in the right hand, a tear-shape opening on his back and a slit behind his neck act as smoke holes

Sydney L. Moss Ltd, London, September 2006.

The overall condition is quite good with some wear and losses to the painted lacquered surface (showing in the illustration in the catalogue). There are a couple of small casting flaws/pitted holes (to the front right sleeve, on the back near the lower left edge of the robe).
"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."

Compare a figural bronze censer with the original colouring similarly well preserved, illustrated in Paul Moss, Between Heaven and Earth. Secular and Divine Figural Images in Chinese Paintings and Objects, London, 1988, pl. 39; and a bronze group of Shoulao riding a stag with traces of gilding and red pigment highlighting the details, from the collection of Edward T. Chow, sold in our Hong Kong rooms, 19th May 1981, lot 622. See another figural incense burner attributed to the late Ming period, sold in our New York rooms, 16th March 1984, lot 113; one sold in these rooms, 25th November 1981, lot 382A.