A pair of white-glazed guardian figures Qing dynasty, 19th century

each menacing figure standing with boots firmly planted on either a vanquished tiger or dragon rising out of turbulent waves, the first with his mouth clenched tight, posed with one arm raised high and the other bent as if holding a spear, the other with mouth open in fierce expression baring his teeth and curled tongue, holding a ball in one hand, raised as if about to pelt it at his opponent, both figures wearing voluminous robes beneath a long cape tied around the chest, their bald heads with bulging eyes and flaring nostrils framed by curly beards and a thin tiara, covered overall in a white glaze tinged with blue (2)

Figure on the right of catalogue image: There are some small chips, one to the tip of his left eye brow, edge of the rock near the animal's hind leg, and the edge of the right sleeve though this one appears to have been original to the firing. There are scattered minor areas of glaze pull, iron spots, and kiln grit to the left rib. This is in otherwise good condition. Figure on the left of catalogue image: There is a small chip to the bottom of the bow tied around his neck, and firing cracks are scattered throughout the figure. The base with a triangular section under his right leg approximately 4 inches wide x 4 inches vertical cracked; the section and its attendant chips restored. Both figures are more green in tone than suggested on the catalogue image.
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.