A PAIR OF INLAID BRONZE TIBETAN-FORM VASES QING DYNASTY, 18TH / 19TH CENTURY

each cast with globular body and a long waisted neck and galleried mouthrim, all on a splayed stepped foot, the neck with parallel beaded bands and layered chains inlaid with semi-precious stones, flanked by a pair of handles in the form of tusked elephants, their trunks curled to fashion apertures once fitted with loose rings, the shoulders with a band of pendent lappet leaves

Acquired at Portobello Road Antiques Market, London, 1988.

There is some wear to the sides and few dents to the surface or occasional pitting, predominantly around the foot ring and mouth rim. One vase with five inset jewels missing. The other vase missing two jewels, with a circular opening where one of the jewels once was. The cast pierced with hole, 0.2 cm, to one side of the neck. There is a lightly flattened area to one side. Both vases missing the rings once suspended from the elephant handles.
"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."