A GILT-SPLASHED BRONZE GUI CENSER QING DYNASTY, 17TH/ 18TH CENTURY

the tall bombé body rising to a flared rim, set with a pair of applied bamboo handles, the surface of the bronze covered in a dark chocolate patina with irregular gold splashes, the base with an apocryphal six-character Xuande mark within a recessed rectangle, the hardwood cover pierced with stylised foliate scrolls and set with a double-gourd jadeite finial, wood stand

The censer is in good condition with the exception of wear to the patina around the rim as a result of surface scratching by the cover, some tiny nicks to the rim and slight rubbing of the patination (circa 2.8cm x 1.9cm.) to the centre of one side. The base with a slightly uneven area of patination to circa 1.2cm x 1 cm. There are some minor nicks to the rim of the wood cover. The wood stand has a repaired chip (circa 3 x 0.5cm) at the rim, which appears to be three clean breaks, one chip of which is missing.
"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."