A BRONZE DRUM-FORM 'DRAGON' CENSER 17TH CENTURY

of circular section with bulging sides and a flat base, the sides decorated with two pairs of confronted dragons chasing 'flaming pearls' against a punched ground, the handles in the form of lion masks, between rows of bosses at the mouth and base, all supported on three cabriole feet, the base with an apocryphal six-character Xuande mark 

Acquired in China by a missionary prior to 1950.

There are two patches of corrosion in the sides, each approximately 1 in (2.5 cm) long. One patch as two resultant holes and the other has one. There are a few minor casting flaws in the base, minor nicks around the rim and light signs of wear due to age.
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.

A Qianlong period example of a similarly-shaped censer is illustrated in Robert D. Mowry, China's Renaissance in Bronze: the Robert H. Clague Collection of Later Bronzes, 1100-1900, Phoenix Art Museum, Phoenix, 1993, cat. no. 22.