AN ARCHAIC BRONZE RITUAL FOOD VESSEL (DING) LATE SHANG DYNASTY

the body of deep rounded U-shape resting on three cylindrical legs, crisply cast around the exterior with a wide band of three ferocious taotie masks divided by confronted kui dragons, above a skirt of triangular lappets set with pendent cicadas against a leiwen ground, the rim set with two loop handles, a single pictogram to the inside rim, the metal patinated to a dark grey tone with patches of malachite encrustation

Old Japanese Collection.

According to an x-ray this appears to be in good condition. The casting is crisp and fine. There is extensive malachite and cuprite encrustation to the interior, which have been polished off to reveal the pictogram. The color is of a more subtle green tone than the catalogue illustration suggests.
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.