清十八世紀 鎏金銅浮雕拐子龍紋雙聯瓶

solidly cast as conjoined ganlan-shaped vases of two sizes, each side elaborately dressed in a raised sprawling matrix of dense angular scrolls textured with beaded edge and overrun with fleshy furling leaves, sprouting tendrils and floral sprays, with two terminals in the form of chilong heads with long sweeping manes bridging the necks of the two vessels, the tapering necks each mounted with a pair of animal head handles cast in high relief as a bearded ram on one side and a qilin on the other, the exterior covered in shades of warm brown patina and areas of gilt

Overall good condition. There is an original casting hole to the interior, connecting the two vases. Minor dents, bruises and rubbing to gilding on exterior.
"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."

Gilt-bronze double vases are known in a variety of sizes and designs. Compare a miniature version of a gold-splashed bronze double vase, formerly in the Qing court collection, published in Through the Prism of the Past: Antiquarian Trends in Chinese Art of the 16th to 18th Century, Taipei, 2003, p. 157, fig. III-22. A double vase of similar archaistic design, with a Qianlong mark and of the period was sold in our Paris rooms, 10th June 2014, lot 21.