A CLOISONNE ENAMEL CENSER AND COVER QING DYNASTY, QIANLONG PERIOD

of rectangular section with chamfered corners, the broad stepped shoulder decorated with lappet and confronting foliate kuilong bands, below a floret decorated waisted neck, the rim with a key-fret band and bail handles, each side of the tapering body set with a taotie mask, the flat-topped domed cover with pierced design of bats in flight amid clouds, below a band of ruyi surrounding a lappet-encircled raised panel, all supported on gently flared scrolled legs issuing from lion-masks (2)

Removed from China in the late 19th Century and thence by descent.

The finial is missing, and both long sides of the cover are slightly dented inwards. The body has some minor losses to the blue enamel in the border above the rim. There are nicks along the edges. There are also minor nicks along the edges of the handles and the rim. There is a crack in the forehead of one of the lion masks above the legs with a small area of associated loss. Some of the gilt surfaces have possibly been regilded. Overall there is some minor pitting and minute chips to the enamels, some light surface wear and wear to the gilding.
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.

A similar censer and cover, dated to the 18th century was sold in our London rooms, 12th June 1990, lot 53.