AN ARCHAIC BRONZE WINE VESSEL, GU SHANG DYNASTY

of slender waisted form rising from a splayed foot to a wide, flared neck, the slightly convex central section cast with a register of two taotie masks centred on vertical flanges on a leiwen ground, enclosed by pairs of concentric horizontal raised bands divided by four cruciform apertures, the foot similarly cast with two taotie masks, the patina of a smooth polished dark tone with areas of malachite encrustation to the neck and foot

Sotheby's New York, 1st April 2005, lot 147.

A 1.5 x 0.2cm chip to the rim and minor nibbling along the edges; some knocks to the side, the largest measuring 0.4 x 0.7cm; a smooth black patina mottled with malachite encrustations.
"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."