明十七世紀 掐絲琺瑯纏枝蓮紋獅首銜環耳壺

of archaistic hu form, cast with a pear-shaped body of generous proportion rising from a splayed foot to a waisted neck and flared rim, the shoulder flanked by a pair of Buddhist lion mask handles suspending loose rings, the exterior brightly enamelled against a turquoise ground with four main registers enclosing large lotus blooms wreathed in scrolling foliage issuing curling leaves, the four registers divided by three bands of floral scrolls against a darker blue ground, the splayed foot similarly decorated with a band of lotus scrolls above a thin band of floral scrolls

The foot has been stabilised and refixed to the body - evidence of metal fasteners are visible from the interior. The copper base plate has possibly been replaced in the past. As visible in the catalogue photo, there is rubbing to the gilding and minor surface wear and bruises.
"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."