清乾隆 銅胎畫琺瑯福祿雙全紋齋戒牌

delicately painted in bright enamels, inscribed one one side with the characters Zhai jie in blue enamel, the reverse with the two characters in Manchu, both sides with two pink-enameled bats in flight and framed by gourds and small white blossoms amidst entwined tendrils, all reserved on a pale green ground, within a gilt-bronze border, with an attached orange silk tassel

仁德齋收藏，得於1949至1970年代之間
紐約佳士得2011年9月15日，編號1213

The plaque has scattered nicks and small chips, particularly along the edges; some of which have been filled. There are some fine cracks at the mid-section on one side. The surface with wear overall consistent with age and use.
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.

The term Zhai jie refers to the ceremonial requirement for abstinence before one worshiped the ancestors, the Heavens or other deities. The ritual cleansing of the body from within, which usually lasted for three days, involved abstention from meat, intoxicants, intimate relations and the five strong-smelling vegetables. 'Abstinence' plaques were made in various materials, including jade, bamboo, painted enamel and porcelain. 

Compare two similarly-decorated double-gourd form enamel 'abstinence' plaques, the first sold in our Hong Kong rooms, 8th October 2008, lot 2611; the second, from the collection of Luís Esteves Fernandes, sold at Woolley & Wallis, Salisbury, 22nd May 2013, lot 26.