A BRONZE INCENSE BURNER, YILU QING DYNASTY, 18TH / 19TH CENTURY

finely cast of archaistic yilu form, the gently rounded body supported on a tapered foot, flanked by two handles decorated as animal heads, the top of the handle notched forming the mouth, the two main sides crisply cast with panels of animals among plants, one with a tiger and bird beneath a pine tree, the other with two pheasants besides a flowering tree, the neck decorated with a border of foliated vines and the foot with further scrollwork, the countersunk base cast with an apocryphal six-character Xuande mark within a recessed panel 

The incense burner is in overall good condition. There is some surface wear and light occasional pitting, all consistent with the type. There is some discolouration to the rim, foot rim and base from handling.
"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."