the cylindrical body rising to an inverted dished rim, painted with a pair of dragons in pursuit of flaming pearls above mountain peaks and crashing waves divided by three moulded mythical beast heads, separated by two inscribed cartouches with a date, place of manufacture and dedication

P. J. Donnelly 收藏

Sheila Riddell，《 Dated Chinese Antiquities 600 – 1650》，倫敦， 1979年， 圖82， 頁102

This censer has been broken around the luting line and restored, along with associated hairline cracks with one extending to the rim (approx. 15 cm) and another horizontal one crossing it (approx. 20 cm) down to the base. There are small areas of re-touching to the glaze, and small glaze flakes particularly to the rim and to the moulded mythical beast. There are some firing imperfections including kiln grit to the interior bottom and base.
"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 slightly smaller censer dated 1637, was included in the Min Chiu Society exhibition Radiant Ming 1368-1644 through the Min Chiu Society Collection, Hong Kong Museum of History, Hong Kong, 2015, cat. no. 281.