十七世紀 銅摩竭耳爐

raised on a short, slightly flared foot and rising to an everted rim, the sides cast with opposing makara-head handles, the base with an apocryphal six-character Xuande mark 

There is a minor knock to the foot rim and to the mouth rim, just above one of the handles. Minor knocks and signs of wear consistent with age and use on the body, and small scattered patches of oxidation and encrustation, mostly around the mark on the base. There is a shallow dent, and a series of small indentations approximately 1 1/2 in (3.8cm) in length on the side of the body.There is a patch visible on the interior behind one of the handles, which may be original to manufacture. The patination is slightly mottled.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The makara is a mythical amphibious creature whose head is described as having the lower jaw of a crocodile, the trunk of an elephant, tusks of a wild boar and eyes of a monkey.

A censer with similar handles was sold in our Hong Kong rooms, 8th October 2010, lot 2715.