A GROUP OF ARCHAIC BRONZE FITTINGS EASTERN ZHOU PERIOD AND HAN DYNASTY

comprising a pair of dragon-form handles and pair of axle caps terminating in finely cast monster heads with upturned snouts from the Eastern Zhou period and a taotie-form  handle escutcheon with relief cast curls and horns, protuberant eyes and high relief beak which presumably once held a ring, Han dynasty (5)

Acquired in the 1970s and 80s and thence by descent.

Jessica Rawson, The Bella and P.P. Chiu Collection of Ancient Chinese Bronzes, Hong Kong, 1988, nos. 40,41 and 42.

The pair of handles with old repairs and cracks; the axle caps, in good condition, and the mask 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.