清十七 / 十八世紀 銅戟耳香爐 《琴書侶》款

of compressed form, the sides set with opposing tabbed loop handles, the base cast with three characters within a recessed rectangle reading Qin Shu Lu (companion of the qin and the book), wood stand (2)

The patina is slightly mottled, there are small scattered specks of encrustation, the base appears lightly polished and has the initial IMS scratched on the edge, there is a shallow scratch approximately 1 1/2 in. (3.8 cm) long on the side of the body, along with general signs of wear. Overall the censer is in good general 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.
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.

Qin Shu Lu is the sobriquet of Wu Bangzuo, a Xuande period official who oversaw the making of bronze censers. Small, elegant censers made for scholars were often cast with that mark not only as an homage to Wu, and also to appeal to the tastes of their intended clientele, scholars, who saw themselves often in the company of the qin and books. For examples of small bronze censers with similar marks see one sold at Christie's New York, 19th-20th September 2013, lot 1548, and another sold in our London rooms, 16th May 2007, lot 355.