A GILT AND HARDSTONE-INLAID SILVER EWER FOR THE MONGOLIAN MARKET QING DYNASTY, 19TH CENTURY

the flattened pear-shaped body supported on a tall spreading foot, inset with a ruyi-shaped jade plaque on either side, one carved with bearded sages within a landscape and the other with a stylised shou character under a beribboned canopy surrounded by various auspicious emblems, the body and the foot applied with gilt clambering chilong in relief and further embellished with hardstone-inlaid floral decoration, set with a similarly decorated curved spout secured by a dragon strut and a scrolled handle inset with a jade 'dragon' belthook, the stepped cover surmounted by a jade carving of a pair of mandarin ducks toggling a leafy spray of lotus

The patina on the bronze is largely tarnished and some of the gilding is lost. One of the turquoise inlay on the floral motifs around the jade plaque has been lost. The shou character jade plaque has a 8cm vein with associated flakes. The edges and extremities of the jades generally has minor nicks and nibbling, the colour of the stones are of a slightly more celadon tone compared to the catalogue illustration.
"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."