A BRONZE ‘LION’ CENSER AND A COVER 17TH/18TH CENTURY

heavily cast, the beast standing on four feet terminating in sharp claws, its head gently lifted and turned sharply to its right,  detailed with large round eyes and flaring nostrils, its open mouth revealing sharp fangs, the face framed by tightly coiled whiskers and mane echoing the swaying tail behind, the associated cover surmounted by a smaller lion finial, the bronze patinated to a dark chocolate tone

A Belgian Private Collection.

The cover of the censer may have been later matched. A section of the ribbon grasped by the finial lion's mouth may have been repaired. The lion has some minor polished losses to the claws. There are general small dents and casting flaws. The censer is covered in a thin layer of varnish.
"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."