AN ARCHAIC BRONZE RITUAL VESSEL, LIDING SHANG DYNASTY

the lobed body raised on three tall robust legs issuing from three taotie masks each symmetrically centred on shaped lobes and vertical flanges, all below a short waisted neck and broad everted rim, the metal patinated to a dark grey tone with even light malachite encrustation

The vessel is in good overall condition with the exception casting flaws, two small holes (5 x 2mm., and 2mm., diam.) to the neck (probably very old damage or possibly corrosion due to burial), a slightly mishapen rim and uneveness to the underside of the rim (probably contemporary with manufacture) and quite heavy malachite encrustation which obscures some of the decoration around the exterior.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

A closely related example is illustrated in Sueji Umehara, Shina shodo seikwa, pt. I, vol. II, pl. 97; another in the National Palace Museum, Taipei, is published in Masterworks of Chinese Bronze in the National Palace Museum, Taipei, 1971, pl. 2; another was sold in these rooms, 29^th March 1977, lot 165; and a fourth example was sold in our New York rooms, 13^th March 1969, lot 6.