AN ARCHAIC BRONZE RITUAL POURING VESSEL, YI SPRING AND AUTUMN PERIOD

the rounded body raised on three high animal-form cabriole legs, set to one side with a mythical beast loop handle, and to the other with a spout cast in the form mythical beast head, the rim with two upright circular handles, cast around the sides of the body with a wide band of zoomorphic scrolls, the silvery bronze patina with extensive malachite and azurite encrustations

Acquired in 1993.

Christie's London, 13th November 2001, lot 51.

No breaks or restoration visible under UV or with the naked eye. Old chips to the rim of the spout, and to handle. The main register of design to the exterior with a smooth greenish-brown patina; the interior legs and underside with extensive mottled malachite encrustation, with concentrations of azurite and cuprite encrustation to the interior. General surface wear as consistent with bronzes of this age.
"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."