A FINELY CAST PARCEL-GILT BRONZE ARCHAISTIC VASE MARK AND PERIOD OF QIANLONG

with a baluster body supported on a slightly splayed foot and rising to a trumpet neck and flaring rim, the neck flanked by a pair of Buddhist lion mask handles, each suspending a loose ring from its mouth, the body decorated with a frieze enclosing meandering scrolls bearing lotus blooms and curling leaves, between bands of keyfret and pendent plantain blades, all below keyfret and upright lappets encircling the rim and lower neck respectively, the parcel-gilt surface further accentuated with liberal splashes of gold, the base incised with a four-character reign mark

A Dutch private collection, by repute.

Good overall condition, with just minute nicks and bruises to the foot and mouth rim. Other general surface wear and rubbing to the gilding.
"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."

This finely cast archaistic bronze vase epitomises the reverence for antiquity in the Qianlong period. Similar archaistic decoration can be seen on another rare gold-splashed vessel, a Qianlong reign-marked vase in the Musée Cernuschi, illustrated by Michel Maucuer, Bronzes de la Chine impériale, des Song aux Qin, Paris, 2013, cat. no. 49. Compare also the decoration on a Qianlong reign-marked gold-splashed bronze vase and water pot, sold at Christie's New York, 17th/18th September 2015, lot 2116, and a vase sold in these rooms, 5th October 2016, lot 63, from the collection of Roger Keverne.