A FINE GILT-BRONZE CLOISONNE ENAMEL JARDINIERE QING DYNASTY, QIANLONG PERIOD

of hexagonal section standing on six gilt-bronze bracket feet of ruyi shape, the deeply flared sides decorated on the exterior in turquoise ground enamel reserved with multi-coloured stylised sprigs and angular scrolls, each face centred with an elaborately pierced gilt-bronze panel in relief with a pair of bats hovering above three peaches amidst stylised leafy scrolls, the narrow everted rim with further sprigs on a turquoise ground and engraved with a keyfret gilt-bronze edge

The jardiniere is slightly wobbled. The base is drilled with a hole, interior with extensive malachite and cuprite deposits and other small circular apertures (0.2 x 0.2cm each). There are general minor enamel loss and pinprick holes, the gilding is slightly 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."

 A closely related pair of matched jardinières, from the Alfred Morrison collection and the Fonthill Heirlooms, was sold at Christie's London, 9^th November 2004, lot 42; and a pair, but with Qianlong reign marks and of the period, was sold in these rooms, 19^th December 1980, lot 32. Compare a rectangular jardinière, decorated with a closely related floral scroll bordering similar pierced bronze panels depicting twin fish suspended from musical stones, clusters of fruit and swirling clouds, sold in these rooms, 12^th June 1990, lot 55, and again at Christie's Hong Kong, 30^th October 2001, lot 685.