Rare paire d'éléphants en cuivre doré Dynastie Qing, époque Qianlong

chacun se tenant debout, la tête tournée vers le côté, harnachés, le dos couvert d'une selle et d'un long tapis aux bordures finement incisées d'une frise florale, les larges oreilles repliées contre la tête, les yeux en amandes, la trompe courbée vers l'intérieur (2)

Both elephants are made of gilt-copper sheets which are joined, the joints clearly visible. Both elephants with overall wear to the gilding, and scattered bruises on the body. The elephant on the left of the catalogue illustration with a detachable saddle, and a dent on the back left leg with an associated hole where two metal sheets are joined. The elephant on the right of the catalogue illustration with a dent on the back right leg with an associated hole where two metal sheets are joined. The saddles are detachable, there are traces of red pigment to the mouths.
"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."