A rare large cloisonne enamel tripod censer and cover. Qianlong six-character mark inscribed in a line and of the period (1736-1795)

The compressed globular body raised on three cabriole legs issuing from gilt-copper lion masks and decorated with lotus scroll bearing blossoms surrounded by the wufu, above a band of small flowers and a large flower head on the base, with bands of foliate sprays on the neck, pierced upright handles, and upright rim, which is applied with a rectangular panel inscribed with the reign mark, the cover en suite and pierced with the Eight Trigrams below a globular knop pierced with a dragon amidst clouds. 16 in. (40.7 cm.) high, wood stand - Estimate: $120,000 - $150,000 - Price Realized: $170,500

Christie's. Fine Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art. 17 September 2008. New York, Rockefeller Plaza. www.christies.com