A PAIR OF CLOISONNE ENAMEL AND GILT-BRONZE SYMBOLIC OFFERINGS CHINA, QING DYNASTY, QIANLONG PERIOD

each comprising a stem fashioned as a beribboned vase on a domed lappet base with a shou roundel surrounded by openwork bats issuing from its mouth, surmounted by a lotus blossom, one bearing an emblem of three flaming jewels, the other a kneeling general (2)

Christie's Hong Kong, 28th April 1996, lot 550.

The piece surmounted by the jewels is missing an attachment at the top and there is some chipping to the enamels on one side above the jewels. There are losses to the enamel on the top of the lotus pod with some touch ups. One of the lappets around the base has a chip and four have cracks. There is a loss to the sword held by the general surmounting the other piece, and a missing attribute in the general's other hand. There are losses to the enamel on the figure's knee. There are also losses to the enamel on the top of the lotus pod. One of the lappets around the base is chipped exposing the metal ground and three others have shallow chips and associated cracks. Both pieces have the expected pitting to the enamels and age related wear.
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.

The three jewels represent the Buddha, Sangha and Buddhist doctrine, whose light illuminates the mind of the ruler, so that he can perceive the world and the manifold connections between events with crystal clarity. The general symbolizes the ruler's power to overcome and triumph over his enemies.