Beschreibung:

A MAGNIFICENT AND VERY LARGE IMPERIAL CLOISONNE ENAMEL 'PHOENIX' TRIPOD CENSER AND COVER QIANLONG PERIOD (1736-1795) The compressed globular censer is elaborately decorated with a dense design of linked lotus blossoms, exotic flowers and berries amidst foliate scrolls, below six ruyi -shaped panels enclosing further composite flowers and plants reserved on a purple ground around the shoulder. The body is supported on three gilt-bronze blades emerging from dragon-heads, and is flanked by a pair of magnificent gilt-bronze handles cast in the form of phoenix in profile with elegantly upcurving feathery wings. The broad mouth is encircled with a gilt band of lappets. The domed cover is enamelled with further ruyi -shaped panels containing flowering branches, surmounted by a gilt knop finial pierced with a scaly dragon and a flaming pearl amidst dense clouds and rocks. 31 3/4 in. (80.6 cm.) high