A LARGE FAMILLE-ROSE ALTAR SET QING DYNASTY, 19TH CENTURY

the set comprising a rectangular four-part censer resting on four mask-form legs, surmounted by a large conforming vessel, with fitted canted cover and lion-form finial, all supported on a low base with raised rim, a pair of two-part square beaker vases, fanghu and a pair of two-part square tall tapering candlesticks each with an everted drip pan above the splayed base, all similarly and brightly painted with a central confronting dragon and phoenix amidst colorful cloud wisps and fluttering iron-red bats enclosed with a band of cresting waves below (12)

Acquired in the mid-1980s in Brighton, England and thence by descent.

The censer is missing its handles. One leg has been restuck and one has a firing crack around the top. There are a few chips and frits to rims throughout. One of the fanghu has a restored chip to one corner with an associated hairline crack and with a large V-shaped section broken to the lower section of one corner broken and repaired. Otherwise the set is in overall good condition.
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.