晚明 銅四喜娃娃鎮紙

cast as a set of twins aligned in a mutually inverted fashion, each adorned with a band around the torso incised with archaistic motifs, depicted playfully holding head with both hands and kicking the left foot in midair, the figures connected at the upper and lower torso, the conjoiners incised with archaistic motifs, the bronze patinated to a greenish-brown colour 

As visible in the catalogue photo, there are bruises, dents and general surface wear. There are two small 0.3cm losses to one of the feet.
"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."

This skilfully modelled set of twins has been cleverly designed to give the impression of being four boys. It could have been multifunctional, acting not only as a sculpture but also as a paperweight and brushrest.  For a similar example, See The Chinese Scholar's Studio: Artistic Life in the Late Ming Period, New York, 1987, cat.no. 66.