A Massive Archaistic Bronze Vessel (Lei) Qing Dynasty, 18th / 19th Century

the robust body rising from a high splayed foot to a waisted neck with everted rim, cast with registers enclosing four low-relief taotie masks reserved against a leiwen ground on the neck, shoulder, body, and foot, with eight prominent triangular lappets beneath the main register, each containing a pair of confronting gui dragons, the shoulder flanked by a pair of loop handles issuing from bovine heads

The neck appears to have been buffed with wax, but it is in overall good 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 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.

Compare another late Qing dynasty archaistic bronze vessel sold in these rooms, 30th March 2006, lot 146.