A GOLD AND SILVER INLAID BRONZE FITTING WARRING STATES PERIOD

of cylindrical knopped form, finely inlaid in gold and silver with a geometric stylized bird motif, wood stand

From a Belgian private collection.

The fitting is in good overall condition with the exception of some small areas of errosion and pitting to the surface due to burial, tiny nibbles to the open end and light malachite encrustation to the interior.
"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."

Despite its utilitarian function this piece is elaborately inlaid with geometric designs and conventionalised animal motifs, executed in strands of silver pressed into cavities. The work is so finely done that the final effect is like a metal foil, betraying no aspect of the actual mode of its manufacture.

Compare fittings of related cylindrical form and similarly inlaid with various designs; see one in the Honolulu Academy of Arts, Honolulu, illustrated in Dr. Robert J. Poor, Ancient Chinese Bronzes, Ceramics and Jade in the Collection of the Honolulu Academy of Arts, Honolulu, 1979, pl. 46; two in the Alfred. F. Pilsbury collection, published in Bernhard Karlgren, A Catalogue of the Chinese Bronzes in the Alfred F. Pillsbury Collection, Minneapolis,1952, p. 215; and two included in the Oriental Ceramic Society of Hong Kong exhibition, Ancient Chinese and Ordos Bronzes, Hong Kong Museum of Art, Hong Kong, 1990, cat. nos 90-91.