A BRONZE RECTANGULAR INCENSE BURNER EARLY QING DYNASTY

of unusual proportions, reminiscent of a stylised table, the rectangular form elegantly raised on four feet below sloping sides, set with a pair of flat-topped handles, the underside cast with an apocryphal six-character Xuande mark, the surface of a deep chocolate-brown colour

Pat Bedford Antiques, London, 1986.

The incense burner is otherwise in overall good condition. There are light surface scratches and an old repair to the cast at the rim.
"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."

The form of the current incense burner, boldly cast of straight rectangular form supported on four tapering legs, is rare, and reminiscent of furniture from the late Ming to early Qing dynasty. For a Yongzheng mark and period bronze incense burner of similar 'table-form', in the Palace Museum, Beijing, see Classics of the Forbidden City. Splendors from the Yongle and Xuande Reigns of China's Ming Dynasty, Beijing, 2012, p. 265, pl. 145. The Palace Museum incense burner differs from the current example in that it is cast with straight legs set at right angles to the body, and is preserved with its original stand.