A GOLD HAND-WARMER QING DYNASTY, 18TH CENTURY

of octagonal form with rounded shoulders, decorated on each side with a quatrefoil lobed panels each containing phoenix amidst clouds and flowers, set with a key-fret band around the rim, fitted with a pierced cover further decorated with a phoenix on a reticulated wan-diaper ground, a thirteen-character inscription chased to one of the swing handles bawu sui jin gong zhong shiqi liang wu (qian?) san fen ('[Made in the] new year of the 85th year, gold weighing 17.53 ounces'), together with a slender stoker with an ingot-shaped head fitted on the side of the censer

There are some typical dents, especially to the rim of the cover, the exterior and the underside of the body. There are also some minor wear and scratches to the surface.
"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."

Compare a hand-warmer of related form in Power and Glory: Court Arts of China's Ming Dynasty, Asian Art Museum, pl. 112.