A CLOISONNE ENAMEL VASE, FANGHU MING DYNASTY, 17TH CENTURY

in the form of an archaic prototype, the sides with applied bronze mask ring handles, enamelled with various animals including crane, deer, a monkey, peacock and parrot amongst rockwork and flowering trees, above a band of horses amongst breaking waves at the foot and below a band of kuilong at the shoulder, with a wide band of ascending leaves below the rim

From a private European collection acquired in the 1980's.

The vase is generally in good overall condition, however there is some rubbing to the gilding in numerous areas; numerous small areas of enamel loss, pitting and shrinkage; small areas of re-touching to vertical 7cm., long sections at the waist corners; and repair to a small thin vertical dent to the base.
"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."

For a similar vase decorated with a dragon in the main field, see Helmut Brinker and Albert Lutz, Chinesisches Cloisonne Die Sammlung Piere Uldry, Museum Rietberg, Zurich, 1985, pl. 157; and for another example with similar decoration without handles, please see Christie's London, 07 November 2006, lot 99.