A BRONZE 'DRAGON' INCENSE BURNER, COVER AND STAND 17TH/18TH CENTURY

the body of rounded rectangular form, the deep gently curved sides rising from a short spreading foot to an everted rim, cast in high relief around the exterior with dragons amidst foaming waves divided by lion mask handles at each end, the domed reticulated cover cast in high relief with two large scaly dragons amidst ruyi cloud scrolls divided by phoenix at either end, surmounted by a cup-shaped finial, all supported on a pedestal lotus base raised on four ruyi feet, the bronze patinated to a dark chocolate brown tone

One of the lion mask handles is loose but is still attached to the censer, as seen in the catalogue illustration. The censer has been knocked in various places, resulting in small nicks (circa 0.7 x 0.4cm) along the edges of the rim, another nick (0.6 x 0.2cm) at the base of the wave decoration and other dents and nicks just above the foot and along the footring. The rim of the cover has extensive areas of loss, the largest area measuring 8.2 x 1cm. The stand has two circa 0.5 x 0.2cm nick and other minor dents. The patina is rubbed in places.
"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."