AN IMPORTANT IMPERIAL CHINESE GILT-BRONZE LION CLOCK STAND QIANLONG PERIOD (1736-1795)

cast striding upon an oval pedestal encircled with lobed lotus lappets and inlaid in turquoise, coral, lapis and other hardstones, its large head turned to its left and framed by a curling mane, the back draped with a finely chased saddle blanket and shaped mount supporting a large octagonal clock-frame, cast around the border with the Eight Daoist Trigrams in a compressed band, all on a wooden stand. Together with a pair-cased coach watch with replaced modern movement, white enamel dial and paste-set bezel, the inner case centered with an engraved foliate motif, the outer case back centered by a polychromed enamel scene of a maiden playing the harp, pierced scrolling decoration to both bands. 3 pieces.

The gilt-bronze stand may not be original as the gilding is a different color to the lion. Some of the stones may be replacements and there is general wear to the gilding overall. The enamel on the watch case has surface wear and scratches. The movement is modern but the case is intact with the original dial. The hands are probably replaced. The movement is running at the time of cataloguing, however it may require service soon.
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.

From the time the first clocks were brought to China from Europe around 1582, the Chinese Emperors were fascinated with European mechanical clockworks.

The Qianlong Emperor (1736-1795) in particular was an avid collector of all types of timepieces and automatons and his enthusiasm for both European and Chinese-made clocks and watches was limitless. He had thousands of European and Chinese clocks in his collection, and more than 4,000 examples existed in the Imperial Palaces.