Paire de phénix en bois doré et partiellement peint Chine, XXe siècle

debout, la tête tournée vers l'arrière, sur des socles en forme de rocher, avec un buffle en bronze doré incrusté de pierres dures, dissimulant un encrier, Chine, XXe siècle

Please note that this condition report was made on September 5th 2016 inside Robert de Balkany's hôtel rue de Varenne; this lot will be shipped to Sotheby's galleries before the exhibit and the sale. Both phoenix are broken in several parts and entirely restored, with long cracks visible. The gilding is worn, especially on the base, with small losses to the feathers. The heads are damaged, with losses and wear to the pigments. The buffalo is in good condition, with some wear to the gilding, especially to the legs. There are some casting flaws. One stone is missing from the hardstone marquetry on the top of the inkwell.
"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."