A GILT-SPLASHED BRONZE HANDLED HU-SHAPED VASE QING DYNASTY, 18TH CENTURY

flanked with two mask handles suspending loose rings, moulded with a bow-string line on the waisted neck below the lipped rim, the surface of the bronze covered in a rich toffee patina with irregular gold splashes, the base with an apocryphal six-character Xuande mark within a recessed rectangle, wood stand and box

The vase has a circa 7cm scratch and patches of verdigris deposits which appears green on the body. There is numberous pinkprick holes on the shoulder surrounding one of the animal mask handles. The stepped foot has several nicks to the exterior (the largest measuring circa 1 x 1cm) and the inner wall (largest measuring circa 4 x 1.5cm) as a result of casting. The footring has minor nibbling along the edges. The patina is rubbed in places.
"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."