A GILT-BRONZE AND CLOISONNÉ ENAMEL CENSER AND COVER QING DYNASTY, 18TH CENTURY

of rectangular section, the body rising to a waisted neck with an everted rim, flanked by a pair of gilt-bronze winged dragon handles, all supported on four splayed legs issuing from dragon masks, the body brightly decorated against a turquoise ground with bands of stylised taotie masks, encircled at the rim with a keyfret border, the domed cover similarly decorated and surmounted by a pierced gilt-bronze 'peony' knop

There are overall pinholes and minor loss to the enamels, such as the areas around the gilt-bronze rims, and the eyebrow of the taotie mask on the cover. The floral medallion to the centre of the base is fitted with a blue stone with associated loss around. The three legs are slightly loose and attached to the body of the censer with nails and screws to the interior. The handles are also strengthened with pins to the interior. The spine of one chilong handle is bent possibly due to impact force. The top of the gilt-bronze knop on the cover has a slight depression.
"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."