A PAIR OF GILT-BRONZE, CLOISONNE AND CHAMPLEVE ENAMEL ELEPHANTS QING DYNASTY, 18TH / 19TH CENTURY

each standing four-square with head lowered and turned to the side, the trunk curled upwards between the tusks, the trappings and harness detailed with champlevé enamels and inset with colored glass, the saddle cloth brightly decorated in cloisonné enamel with bats in flight above crashing waves on a turquoise ground, with chrysanthemum florets, all supporting a baluster-form vase enameled with lotus scroll (2)

One elephant has been cleaned, giving the appearance of a different color of gilding. The elephant with the brighter gilding with saddle slightly loose, extensive pitting and flaking to the enamels on the vase, wear and scratching to gilding and traces of a greenish verdigris-type substance, possibly from cleaning material, in the crevices. The second elephant in good general condition. The vase and the saddle slightly loose. Pitting to enamels. Surface wear throughout.
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.