A BRONZE 'QILIN' INCENSE BURNER AND COVER LATE MING DYNASTY

cast as an incense burner in the form of a qilin depicted standing foursquare with its head turned around and mouth ferociously opened revealing its teeth, the tail gently curling towards the left, the caparison elaborately detailed with tassels and intricate designs, the cover cast in the form of a cub sitting atop a reticulated dome of floral scrolls, the caparisoned cub with a budding lotus atop its back and similarly adorned with ornaments, the patina of an attractive warm caramel-brown colour

Michael Merton, Bermondsey Square Antiques Market, London, late 1970s to early 1980s.

There is oxidisation and general surface wear to the main body and cover of the vessel. Bruising to the back right foot, resulting in a shallow hole exposing the inner bronze under the foot. Minor chips and surface wear to the flange of the vessel.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The superbly cast vessel is skilfully modelled and extensively undercut, with every element cast in the lost wax process. The incense is designed to emit through the mouth of the animal in addition to the openwork back.