A CINNABAR-LACQUER CENSER AND STAND QING DYNASTY, 18TH CENTURY

based on an archaic bronze gui, carved in high relief with two pairs of confronting archaistic phoenix reserved on a leiwen ground, the sides flanked by a pair of stylised birds forming the handles, all below a narrow band around the shoulders with further pairs of confronting phoenix centred on a taotie mask, a key-fret band at the rim, the cover similarly decorated with pendant archaistic motifs and surmounted by a green jade finial carved with a bat amidst clouds, the interior lacquered in black and fitted with a gilt-metal liner all supported on a separate lacquer stand finely carved with wan and floret diaper grounds resting on five ruyi-head feet, the base lacquered in black

There are a few minor cracks and consolidated chips to the rim of the cover with minor restoration. The finial has been restuck. There are about 6 vertical cracks to the inside of the cover. The handles of the censer have been re-stuck and the rim and the foot have some minor restoration to minor chips. The interior is in very good overall condition. The stand has some minor restoration to the tips of the feet and one small restuck chip to the ri of the top of the stand.
"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."