Two cloisonne enamel bird censers Late Qing dynasty

the smaller bird a duck with an elegant S-shaped neck, the taller bird an egret distinguishable by its long beak and gilt-bronze reticulated cap, both decorated with archaistic scroll-work and hook-patterns on a turquoise ground, the wings in the form of removable covers, standing on gilt-bronze legs (5)

The duck is in good condition with the gilding on the cloisons largely intact. There is some minor loss to the turquoise enamel at the rear of the body with some of it filled in with blue wax (this is largely obscured by the overhanging wing section). The front end of the wing cover and the top of the head with very minor loss to the blue enamel. The egret is in good condition with the gilding on the cloisons and on the archaistic accents largely intact. The edges of the wing cover and the area around the top of the legs with some loss to the enamel. There are also losses to the enamel on the head, with associated tiny cracks.
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.