A BRONZE CENSER AND COVER QING DYNASTY, 17th /18th century

the rectangular vessel supported on four feet, its compressed body carved in low-relief with two archaistic phoenix confronting a stylized shou character, the carving rubbed of gilding and with slightly greenish patina, flanked by two qilong handles, surmounted by a domed reticulated cover with phoenix and wan decoration, a coiled qilong forming the finial, the bronze patinated to a golden-chocolate tone, a six-character Xuande mark on the base

Christie's New York, 9th November 1981, lot 172.
Thereafter with the present owner.

In good overall condition with the gilding on the body rubbed. One small chip to the bottom of a foot.
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.