TWO IMPORTANT AND RARE IMPERIAL CHINESE CLOISONNE BUDDHIST ALTAR PIECES QIANLONG PERIOD (1736-1795)

of champlevé- and cloisonné-enamel gilt-bronze, comprising two of the Seven Emblems of Imperial Power, Qizhengbao, one of a minister seated with his right hand in abhayamudra and left hand holding an alms bowl, the other figure of a general, kneeling with right leg raised, right arm raising scroll and left hand in abhayamudra, both set upon a base of swirling clouds, a large lotus flower with enameled seed-pod and elaborate overlapping gilt-bronze petals arrayed in three upright and one pendant register, and scrolling champlevé leaves, all issuing from a beribboned baluster vase set enameled with scrolling waves, wood stands.

Both bases of swirling clouds appear to added later, or regilded, as the gilding is a different color to the figures. The stand has been restabilized on both, though the top sections revolve. Both handles on one baluster vase are attached with glue and there is general wear and pitting to the enamels overall.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The Seven Emblems of Imperial Power, qizhengbao, according to the Buddhist Sutra, are the accessories of the universal monarch, the Chakravartin. They represent the different abilities or aides that a king must possess in order to stay in power and can be symbolically offered to the Buddha. The Seven Emblems include, the Precious Wheel, the Precious Jewel, the Precious Queen, the Precious Minister, the Precious General, the Precious Elephant and the Precious Horse.