A PAIR OF CLOISONNE AND CHAMPLEVE ENAMELED GILT-BRONZE SYMBOLIC OFFERINGS CHINA, QING DYNASTY, LATE 18TH / EARLY 19TH CENTURY

each made with an enameled central lotus blossom, supported on a baluster-shaped stem, flanked by scrolling kui dragons on a tiered circular base, one supporting a tied gilt-bronze group of objects representing precious jewels and decorated with diaper patterns, the other with a kneeling general wearing chain-mail armor and a billowing scarf, each enclosed within a flame border, embellished with garnets (2)

Christie's Hong Kong, 29th October 1995, lot 626.

There is a loss to the bow and one end of the ribbon tied around the jewels. The jewels are also missing inlay. The attributes held by the general, the helmet finial and the inlay in his armor are missing. Both pieces have missing florets in the flame border. There are chips and losses to the lotus petals, and others have age cracks. The underside of the lotus petals around the stem also have cracks and losses. The scrolling kui dragon on one side of the stem is loose in the piece with the jewels, and both dragons are loose on the piece with the general. There is the expected pitting to the enamels and surface 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 bundle of jewels resembles an outcrop of crystals and represents the light that 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.

A complete offering set with the jewels represented in a similar way is illustrated in Buddhist Art from Rehol, Tibetan Buddhist Images and Ritual Objects for the Qing Dynasty Summer Palace at Chengde, Taipei, 1999, no. 69.