of rectangular section, the flaring sides supported on four animal-mask feet and flanked by a pair of mythical-beast handles, cast to the sides in relief with rectangular panels enclosing dragons writhing amid dense ruyi-shaped clouds, the reticulated cover similarly decorated, surmounted by a square finial encircled by a band of keyfret and upright lappets, the top pierced with a single dragon among clouds, the base with an apocryphal six-character Xuande mark within a recessed cartouche (2)

The censer and cover in good overall condition with small nicks, pitting and wear consistent with age and use.
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.

Compare a similar censer and cover, decorated with mythical beasts, with a matching stand, sold in our London rooms, 16th May 2012, lot 154; and one without the stand sold in these rooms, 21st September 2006, lot 231; another sold at Christie's London, 1st November 1982, lot 99. See also a censer without the cover sold in these rooms, 26th February 1983, lot 326.