AN IMPERIAL CLOISONNE BOX AND COVER MARK AND PERIOD OF QIANLONG

of globular form resembling a custard apple, the domed cover arranged with three rows of concentric lobes encircling a gilt petal base surmounted by a round knop, covered overall with colourful florets borne on a detached foliate scroll on each lobe, the base similarly decorated with two rows of lobes, supported on a low straight foot with a band of red ruyi heads, all reserved on a turquoise ground, the interior and base gilded, the base incised with a four-character reign mark enclosed within a double-square

The overall condition is very good with only a couple minor dents to the knop and minor pitting to the cloisonne enamels.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Cloisonné enamel boxes of this form are rare, although a closely related box was sold at Christie's New York, 19^th March 2008. Compare a six-lobed Beijing enamel box of similar domed form, painted with lotus heads on a yellow ground between small panels of European figures and landscapes on the cover and flowers on the base, from the Qing Court collection and still in Beijing, illustrated in The Complete Collection of Treasures of the Palace Museum, Metal-Bodied Enamel Ware, Hong Kong, 2002, pl. 208.