Grand pique-cierge en bronze Chine, dynastie Qing, marque et époque Qianlong (1736-1795)

formé de trois différentes parties, le pied en forme de cloche aux bords évasés soutenant une coupe aux larges bords accueillant une tige soutenant une coupelle, entièrement sculpté en relief d'un décor archaïsant de dragons kui dans des rinceaux géométriques, marque à six caractères autour du pied (4)

The candlestick is in good overall condition and made of four detached 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."

This piece is impressive for its large size and is unusual for its archaistic dragon scroll design. Candlesticks of similar size and form, bearing Qianlong reign marks and of the period, are more commonly known cast with designs of sinuous dragons as part of five-piece imperial altar garnitures; see, for example, a complete set comprising an incense burner, a pair of candlesticks and a pair of vases, illustrated in in Qingdai gongting shenghuo, Hong Kong, 1985, p. 299, pl. 467, and in situ in the Xianruo Temple, located in the garden of Cining Gong (Palace of Compassion and Tranquillity).