realistically molded as a bundle of ten firecrackers bound with a red brocade sash, the individual wrapping papers rendered in a cheerful palette with varied designs, the interior and recessed base enameled turquoise, the rims of the lid and base gilt, the base centered with an apocryphal iron-red four-character Qianlong seal mark within a white cartouche (2)

In overall good condition with only minor firing imperfections and light abrasion to the rims of the box and cover 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.
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.

Examples of firecrackers upon which the box is based are depicted in a court painting by Giuseppe Castiglione (Lang Shining) and preserved in the Palace Museum, Beijing, entitled Emperor Qianlong Enjoying Himself in Snowy Weather, illustrated in Life in the Forbidden City of the Qing Dynasty, Beijing, 2007, pl. 430. A pair of similarly shaped and enameled 'firecracker' boxes from the collection of Brooke Astor sold in these rooms, 24th-25th September 2012, lot 367.