A PAIR OF BRONZE FIGURAL PRICKET CANDLESTICKS MING DYNASTY, 16TH / 17TH CENTURY

each cast as a standing foreigner standing atop a rectangular plinth with ruyi-form feet, with one muscular arm raised supporting the drip pan, each wearing lose-fitting robes over trousers, incised at the hems and secured at the waist with long sashes falling by the feet and open at the chest to reveal the rounded bellies, the scowling faces with furrowed bushy brows and a curled mustache, the barbed drip pan surmounted by a lotus-form pricket holder, the rich brown patina with traces of gilding (2)

Collection of the Reverend T. Lawrason Riggs (1888–1943).
Collection of Yale University Art Gallery.
Ralph M. Chait, New York, 1945.

The drip pan and pricket of one figure broken off and re-glued, with associated losses, including to one of the tip of the tusk-like protrusions encircling the pricket. Traces of gilding to both. Surface wear and small casting flaws consistent with age and use.
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.