A RARE BRONZE 'MYTHICAL BEAST' POLE FINIAL SHANG DYNASTY |

well cast, of circular section, surmounted by a twin-horned mythical beast, the bulging eyes and a broad flattened nose, flanked by protruding pointed ears, all below tall curved horns cast with scroll work, the bronze of a reddish-brown patina with malachite encrustation, together with a catalogue, Early Chinese Art from the Cunliffe Collection, Bluett & Sons Ltd., London, 1973.

Collection of Lord Cunliffe, The Rt. Hon. Rolf, 2nd Baron Cunliffe of Headley (1899-1963).
Bluett & Sons Ltd., London, 25th March 1985. 
Collection of Professor R. Beaver. 

Early Chinese Art from the Cunliffe Collection, Bluett & Sons Ltd., London, 1973, cat. no. 8. 

The finial is in structurally good condition, with only minor flakes to the oxidation (as seen in the illustration) and some of the oxidation bearing psuedomorphs from the textile that wrapped the finial in burial.
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.