A RARE AND IMPRESSIVE 'DOUCAI' ALTAR GARNITURE QIANLONG SEAL MARKS AND PERIOD

comprising of a tripod censer, a pair of gu-vases and a pair of candlesticks; the censer with a globular body supported on three cabriole legs flanked by a pair of upright handles, the gu-vases with a bulging mid-section below a trumpet mouth and above a bell-shaped lower section, the candlesticks with a drip dish of flaring sides supported on a bell-shaped base, each finely painted in bright enamels with beribboned Eight Buddhist Emblems amidst lotus scrolls, accompanied by plantain leaves, lotus lappets and ruyi-head borders, all inscribed with six-character Qianlong seal marks, a pierced enamelled bronze cover

Sotheby's London, 17th December 1980, lot 677.

The censer is in excellent condition. One gu-vase has two hairline cracks running from the rim (8cm and 5cm respectively), the neck of the other gu has been broken into approximately six pieces and restored. One candlestick has two hairline cracks running vertically down the tapering neck (circa 4.5 and 2.5cm., long), the other has a (4cm) crack to the side of the drip pan. There are overall minor firing imperfections such as burst glazed bubbles and iron spots to all pieces.
"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."