AN ARCHAIC BRONZE RITUAL FOOD VESSEL (XU) WESTERN ZHOU DYNASTY

of rounded rectangular section, the bulging body decorated with horizontal grooves between zoomorphic borders below the mouth  and around the notched foot, the short sides set with opposing loop handles surmounted by an animal mask cast in low-relief, the interior cast with an inscription in archaic script, wood cover with reticulated jade finial and wood stand (3)

Collection of Mr. George Taber.

The vessel has been cleaned and the interior polished. The front 7 1/2 in. (19 cm) of the foot has been replaced. The are a couple of filled patches on the body and chips, filled patches and chaplets on foot. There is some light surface corrosion remaining. The cover is a replacement.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Parts of the inscription have been worn away, but from what remains it appears that the vessel was made by Bo Duo Fu and presented to an unknown person to be treasured and used forever.

The xu is a rare type of vessel used to serve food during rituals and became very popular from around the middle of the Western Zhou dynasty, disappearing soon after the early Spring and Autumn period.