明至清初 銅螭龍紋扁圓式燻爐

cast with an ovoid tapered body rising from a flat base to a broad shoulder, the pierced cover enclosing a coiled chilong with a sinuous body, the patina of a warm golden-yellow colour with copper-brown patches

The incense burner and cover are in overall good condition with surface wear and minor dents to the body of the vessel. There are also minor typical original casting spacers and casting irregularities, such as a tiny aperture to the exterior and short crack to the rim. There is also a small chip to the tip of a cloud wisp to the cover.
"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."

For another bronze vessel cast and pierced with a dragon on the cover, see a late Ming box and cover sold in these rooms, 8th October 2014, lot 3311, from the collection of Ulrich Hausmann. See also a bronze incense burner from the late Ming to early Qing dynasty, cast with chilong handles, sold in these rooms, 6th April 2016, lot 3666, from the collection of Robert E. Kresko.