明 局部鎏金銅蟠桃式薰爐

integrally cast in the form of a hollow peach issuing from a gnarled branch bearing smaller buds and gilt lanceolate leaves, the circular pierced cover cast with further smaller peaches and gilt leaves born on thin twigs, the base cast with a six-character Xuande mark, the bronze patinated to a rich dark brown tone

Lempertz，科隆，1986年11月28/29日，編號1060

There is general surface wear and minor scratches. There are minor chips to the inner flange, Loss of gilding to the vessel, as visible in the catalogue photo. Extensive areas of oxidisation, but overall incense burner and cover are in good condition.
"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."

銅鑄果實形薰爐始見於明，清宮舊藏內一掐絲琺瑯瓜棱式爐，被斷為明代之作例，見《故宮博物院藏文物珍品全集‧金屬胎琺瑯器》，香港，2002年，圖版34。由此器上所銘宣德偽款推斷，宣德朝也許已有鑄造此類器物。一件帶宣德偽款的清代同形器例（缺蓋）於倫敦蘇富比1984年5月4日拍賣，編號461。一件同樣帶宣德偽款的三連桃式爐，於紐約蘇富比2007年3月20日拍賣，編號573。