A BRONZE 'PHOENIX-HEAD' CENSER AND COVER 17TH / 18TH CENTURY

the deep cup-shaped body supported on a splayed foot, the sides cast with lotus lappets tied with a rope and opposing phoenix-head handles, cast in relief with an apocryphal six-character vertical Xuande mark, the pierced cover decorated en suite, surmounted by a lotus pod-form filial, wood stand (3)

There is a casting flaw in the interior behind the head of one phoenix head handle. There are minor nicks around the mouth and the lip of the cover, a signs of light surface wear. The censer and cover appear to be in good overall 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.

Two examples of similar censers have sold in our Hong Kong rooms. The first dated late Ming dynasty from the Water, Pine and Stone Retreat Collection was sold 8th April 2014, lot 213; and another example dated Ming dynasty, 17th century, from the Baoyizhai collection, without a cover, was sold 27th May 2014, lot 612.