AN ARCHAIC BRONZE RITUAL FOOD VESSEL, DING LATE SHANG DYNASTY

the deep, rounded U-shaped body resting on three straight cylindrical legs, cast around the body with a register of stiff pendant lappets enclosing cicadas, below a band of three taotie masks segmented by vertical flanges, the rim set with two loop handles, with a single pictogram to the inside of the rim, the metal patinated to a rich green tone with patches of malachite encrustation

Sotheby's London, 7th December 1993, lot 9.

The ding is in good overall condition with the exception of a 3.5cm., hairline fracture to the side of the body by one of the handles, signs of degradation and corrosion to the bronze characteristic with burial, including a 2cm., wide shallow area of loss to the rim, partial loss of one vertical flange on one taotie, and heavy patches of malachite encrustation in particular to the underside of the base, the legs and approximately a third of 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."