款：
文昌帝君座前
大明成化己卯年敦本堂敬助

There is a firing crack to the edge of one handle, otherwise the censer is in overall good condition.
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.

A censer of the same form, size and decoration but differently inscribed, from the Edward T. Chow collection, was sold in our Hong Kong rooms 19th May 1981, lot 422. A smaller censer similarly decorated but lacking the dated inscription was sold twice in our Hong Kong rooms, first 11th November 1977, lot 42 and again 24th November 1981, lot 101. Compare also the unmarked censer of similar form decorated with animals illustrated in the Percival David Foundation, Catalogue, section 3. no. A 625.