A Chinese cloisonné enamel and gilt-bronze 'Champion' vase, late 19th/early 20th century, enamelled with large lotus blooms on a turquoise ground, comprised of two cylindrical vases with waisted necks and feet, set flanking a large stylized eagle with zoomorphic bird-headed wings, perched upon a dragon-headed crouching bear, his rear legs and tail emerging on the back below a further large gilt-bronze clambering chilong, 32cm high Note: This type of vase is sometimes known as a ‘champion vase’, an appellation translated from the Chinese, ying (eagle) and xiong (bear), describing the two beasts represented, but also forming the pun on the word for ‘champion’ or ‘hero’. Alternatively, the vessel is also known as a ‘nuptial cup’, hejingbei, as it is believed that during the Ming dynasty, it was used as a ritual wine vessel during a wedding ceremony. The double cylinders were filled with wine to be drunk by the bride and groom as part of the marriage rites. These were especially popular during the late-Ming to mid-Qing periods, and were found in jades, bronzes, as well as in cloisonné enamels.Please refer to department for condition report