TWO UNUSUAL CHINESE FAMILLE-ROSE GILT DECORATED BOXES AND COVERS QIANLONG MARK AND PERIOD

each realistically molded as a bundle of ten firecrackers in variously patterned brocade cases, secured by a sash tied in a bow, the interior and recessed base enameled turquoise, the base centered with a four-character Qianlong mark in iron-red.

One with associated cover, restoration and three chips to the sash. There is loss to the enamels on the interior cover, and wear to the enamels overall particularly on the base. The other also with a chip to the sash on the bow, a small hairline crack on the interior rim of cover, scattered areas of touch up to the enamels particularly to the interior of the cover. There is a restored section on the interior rim of the box. There is wear to the enamels overall.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Examples of firecrackers upon which the boxes are based upon are illustrated in a court painting by Giuseppe Castiglione (Lang Shining) and preserved in the Palace Museum, Beijing, entitled Emperor Qianlong enjoying himself in Snowy Weather, illustrated in Life in the Forbidden City of the Qing Dynasty,  Beijing, 2007, p. 262, pl. 430.