A rare and Impressive Pair of Cloisonne Enamel Phoenix Candlesticks on Stands

the mythical birds, decorated with archaistic motifs, standing on rockwork supports set upon balustrade-surmounted stepped circular bases ornamented with bands of lotus scrolls and lotus-leaf lappets, the phoenix heads surmounted by pricket holders, their wings removable (6)

surface soiling, oxidization to surface of metal, scattered areas of verdigris, scattered minor crazing to enamels, tailfeathers and pricket holders somewhat loose, balustrade slightly out of round, some enamel losses to tailfeathers, a few scattered minor losses to enamel otherwise, overall good visual 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 stat.mes nt made by Replica Shoes '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.

Cloisonne enamel phoenix are extremely rare, no other pair appears to have been published. A massive pair of peacocks with similar plumage and tails, was sold in these rooms, 12th October 1984, lot 212. The more commonly depicted bird in this large size is the crane. See a pair sold at Christie's New York, 30th March 2005, lot 157; and another pair sold in our London rooms, 7th November 2007, lot 482. A pair of cranes with similar rockwork bases in the collects ion of the Shenyang Palace Museum, Shenyang, is illustrated in Robert L. Thorp, Son of Heaven. Imperial Arts of China, Kyoto, 1988, figs. 35-36, p. 98.

The mythical phoenix (sheng) is the emperor of all birds, and appears during periods of peace and prosperity. It was also the symbol of the empress of China.