A PAIR OF GILT-BRONZE AND CLOISONNE ENAMEL GARDEN SEATS MING DYNASTY, WANLI PERIOD

each of barrel form, the body decorated with birds perched on peony branches issuing from pierced rocks between two bands of Indian lotus scrolls, set with two bands of large raised bosses and a pair of gilt-bronze lion mask handles suspending rings, the convex seat enamelled with three mythical beasts pacing around a ribboned floral wheel on a ground of stylised cloud scrolls

One of the seats has a depression (circa 16 x 13cm) to the seat area with associated enamel flaking. One raised bosses is lost from the top row and five from the bottom. There are extensive areas of enamel loss (ranging from circa 3cm to 0.5cm) across the surface with some later filled in, and some areas of discoloured enamels which has become slightly translucent with a yellow tinge. The lower bronze band of the seat is slightly detached from the enamelled surfaces. The lion mask handles are rubbed. The other is in fair condition with a circa 4 x 4cm area of depression around the side of the seat. There is also extensive flaking of the enamel (ranging from circa 4cm to 0.5cm) across the surface, particularly to the pierced rocks on the design. The top row of bosses is intact but there are eight bosses lost from the bottom row.
"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."