An unusual archaic bronze composite tripod vessel and lamp stand (ding) late Warring States or Western Han dynasty

plainly decorated save for a single raised rib encircling the compressed globular body, flanked by upright curved handles securing two long angular prongs to support the low domed cover, set on the interior with a pricket stick for use as a lamp stand and two small duck-heads with arched necks on the exterior forming locking clasps, all above three cabriole legs, covered with malachite encrustation (2)

Acquired by the present owner in the early 1990s; prior to that, on the Japanese art market in the early 1980s.

Min Chiu Society exhibition, 1999 - 2000.
Hong Kong Museum of Art, 2001 - 2006.

UV light showed that the vessel is structurally in very good condition. There are no breaks. The malachite encrustation is powdery green.
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.

A related tripod vessel with an extendable lamp stand, in the Gansu Provincial Museum, is illustrated in Zhongguo qingtongqi quanji, vol. 7, Beijing, 1998, pls. 57-58, attributed to the Warring States period.