A RARE CLOISONNE ENAMEL BOX AND COVER IN THE FORM OF A SHEEP QING DYNASTY, 18TH CENTURY

finely cast, standing four square, the well-formed head turned back and the edges of the cover terminating in curling gilt-rimmed tufts of 'hair', repeated above the slender gilt legs below, decorated overall with dense foliate scrolls, enameled in shades of blue, green, red and yellow on a turquoise ground (2)

Collection of Dr. Richard and Mrs. Mary Eckhardt, acquired in Japan between 1947-1952 while Dr. Eckhardt was serving as a surgeon in the United States Army and thence by descent.

There is a visible crack across the enamel and associated loss to one of the curls. There are visible fractures on the interior, and fractures to the top of one rear hind leg and a small associated patch. There are two small patches on one foot. There is the expected pitting to the enamels and wear to the gilding overall.
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.

It is rare to find a cloisonné vessel of this shape and there appear to be no other published examples of this type. There is an animal example of this form, an elephant box and cover, illustrated in Chinese Cloisonné: The Pierre Uldry Collection, The Asia Society Galleries, New York, 1989, cat.no. 325.