Two pairs of four gilt-bronze mounted bleu céleste Sèvres soft-paste porcelain pots-pourris vases, 18th century, circa 1770

named 'vases à monter', of conical shape with a bleu céleste ground, two vases with domed lids and two with flat lids each with a foliate finial, each vase with a pierced gilt-bronze guilloche and bead and reel rim, with two scrolled handles terminating in acanthus leaves, on a gadrooned and laurel wreath pedestal on a shaped square gilt-bronze base, with the labels Clumber 4962 and 4963 inside the vases; (one lid restored)

Collection of the Dukes of Newcastle, Clumber Park

The illustration of the catalogue is accurate. The pair with flat lids: there is a star crack to one of the lids, and a crack to the body (approx. 6 cm.) the other vase is in good condition. The pair with the domed lid: one vase is in good condition, the other has its cover broken and restored, but the body in good condition. On the four vases, the glaze is slightly cracked.
"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."