Lot 145
  • 145

A GILT-BRONZE 'DRAGON' BOWL QING DYNASTY, QIANLONG PERIOD

Estimate
5,000 - 7,000 GBP
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Description

  • bronze
  • 18.7 cm, 7 3/8  in.
the deep rounded sides rising from a splayed foot to a raised rim, cast and gilt in high-relief with two five-clawed dragons pacing above turbulent waves in reach of a 'flaming pearl', their scaly bodies writhing amidst stylised flames and clouds, a cragged cliff battered by the tempestuous sea on the reverse, all between a band of pendent ruyi at the foot and incised key-fret encircling the rim 

Condition

This bowl is in overall good condition, with light malachite encrustations particularly to the interior. There is also rubbing to the gilding, and slight surface scratches, consistent with age.
"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."

Catalogue Note

Gilt-bronze bowls of this form are rare, although at least one Qianlong marked example is known in gold, included in the exhibition Emperor Ch'ien-lung's Grand Cultural Enterprise, National Palace Museum, Taipei, 2002, cat. no. I-47. A closely related pair was sold in our Hong Kong rooms, 4th April 2012, lot 3214.