AN ARCHAIC BRONZE RITUAL WINE VESSEL (GU) LATE SHANG DYNASTY, 13TH-11TH CENTURY BC

the tall, slim body, with flaring mouth and molded conical foot; the upper body with four elongated upright blades, filled with dissolved taotie mask in relief against a background of dense spirals, four snakes placed between the waist and neck, the waist and lower part also decorated with taotie mask and cicadas in relief against a ground of spirals, divided by four evenly spaced flanges, two bowstrings and two crosses dividing the waist and foot, the bronze with an attractive olive patina and some encrustration inside the vessel, Japanese wood box (5)

Mayuyama & Co., Ltd., Tokyo, acquired between 1960-1969.

Mayuyama, Seventy Years, Volume Two, Mayuyama & Co., Ltd., Tokyo, 1976, p. 30, no. 32.

The X-ray shows that the gu is in good condition.
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.