of cylindrical form with three shaped feet, cast around the body with Arabic inscriptions against a ring-punched ground, between bands of lotus scrolls encircling the rim and above the foot, the base with a six-character Zhengde mark

In overall good condition with some expected surface wear and some scattered small dents, 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.

See a closely related censer of this type, but with the Arabic inscriptions enclosed within shaped panels, sold in our London rooms, 12th June 1990, lot 39, and another included in the exhibition Emperor, Scholar, Artisan, Monk. The Creative Personality in Chinese Works of Art, Sydney L. Moss Ltd., London, 1984, cat. no. 118, where the author discusses the group of bronzes with Arabic inscriptions, p. 263.