A PARCEL GILT AND SILVER-INLAID BRONZE VASE, GU, SIGNED SHISOU MING DYNASTY, 17TH CENTURY

rising from a flared foot to a waisted body below a prominent trumpet mouth, collared in the middle with a slightly bulging band adorned with repeated archaistic taotie motifs, between upright plantain leaves at the neck and formal scroll pattern circling the foot, all with details picked out in gold and silver inlay, the countersunk underside inscribed with two characters Shisou in regular script, the surface lacquered and enhanced by malachite imitating natural oxidation on bronzes

Acquired in Paris between the 1970s and the early 90s.

There is some typical wear and flaking to the lacquered and malachite-decorated surface. Although there is some tarnishing to the inlaid surface, the overall condition of the vase is quite good with most of the gold and silver inlay well preserved.
"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."