清乾隆 掐絲琺瑯番蓮紋朝天耳三足爐 《乾隆年製》《唱》款

the compressed globular body rising from three cabriole legs to a waisted neck, the gilt rim surmounted by a pair of arched handles, the exterior of the body brightly decorated with leafy lotus scrolls bearing buds and blossoms, the neck bordered with a band of floral scrolls, the handles similarly enamelled on both sides with a floral scroll, all reserved against a turquoise ground, the base inset with a rectangular plate incised with a four-character mark and the inventory character chang

The overall condition is quite good, with the exception of some wax-filled enamel losses to the cloisonné surface, including a narrow area of approx. 3 cm long below the left handle, as well as two patches in the front measuring approx. 0.5 by 1 cm (right below the red lotus) and 0.5 by 1.3 cm (right below the leaf on the right of the lotus). There are also some flakes, crackles and burst bubbles to the enamels, as well as expected wear to the gilding.
"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."

A pair of cloisonné enamel incense burners of similar form, incised with the inventory mark kuang and preserved with their original covers, was sold in our London rooms, 6th November 2013, lot 139.