AN ARCHAIC BRONZE RITUAL WINE VESSEL AND COVER, ZHI LATE SHANG/EARLY WESTERN ZHOU DYNASTY

the pear-shaped body resting on a splayed foot and rising to an everted rim, cast around the upper body with a register of inter-linked S-shaped scrolls enclosed by borders of circular studs, the scroll border repeated at the foot, the domed cover cast with a similar border and surmounted by an upright loop handle, the interior of the vessel and underside of the cover both cast with the same two-character inscription, both with extensive mottled green malachite encrustation

Collection of Lord Cunliffe, second Baron Cunliffe of Headley (1899-1963), collection no. A90
Sotheby's London, 3rd November, 2002, lot 37.

Exhibition of Early Chinese Bronzes, The Oriental Ceramic Society, London, 1951, cat. No.20.

Both the vessel and cover in good general condition; both with extensive mottled malachite encrustation and patination, most likely cleaned to reveal the two inscriptions. The inside of the foot with malachite and traces of azurite encrustation. The rims of both the vessel and cover with small chips, as would be expected for a vessel of this nature, the largest to the rim of vessel approximately 6mm across. Other general surface wear.
"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."

The two-character inscription consists of the characters fu ji (Father Ji), preceded by a clan sign depicting a child inside a building.