Brûle-parfum couvert en bronze Chine, dynastie Qing, marque et époque Qianlong, daté 1792

de forme rectangulaire sur quatre pieds formant quatre colonnes, chacune surmontée d'une chauve-souris sculptée, les deux prises latérales en forme de phénix, la prise du couvercle ajourée en forme de figure grotesque, inscription à la base datant la pièce, la situant (Hangzhou) et donnant le nom de l'artiste (Mingbao)

An important 2.5cm firing crack starting from the rim to one handle ; some dents to the edges and to the rim ; three original rectangular metal patches scattered on the surface : one near the crack, the two others on the front side (visible on the catalogue illustration).
"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."

This particular archaistic shape of incense burners comes from jade or procelain, for a porcelain censer, also Qianlong, see The Complete Treasures of the Palace Museum, vol. 37, ill. 240, p. 262 ; for comparable jade censers, see lot 16 sold in our New York rooms 19 March 2007