Rare paire de statuettes de danseurs étrangers en bronze partiellement doré Dynastie Ming, marques et époque Jiajing, datées Jiajing bingyin nian (1566)

chacun dansant sur un socle carré ajouré, l'une des jambes pliée en appui sur une souche, le vêtement virevoltant noué délicatement sous le ventre et les longues manches pendantes, le visage expressif aux yeux écarquillés, la chevelure finement nouée en un chignon sur la tête, inscrites et datées au dos Jiajing bingyin nian ... ji (1566) (2)

Both figures are heavily cast and partially gilt. There is overall wear to the gilding, particularly to the bellies and bases of both figures. There is a ca. 2cm long crack to the sleeve of the left arm of the figure illustrated on the left side of the catalogue illustration. Two characters of the inscription on both figures have been erased at a later point. The bronze is of a darker colour than the catalogue illustration suggests.
"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."