AN IMPERIAL GILT-BRONZE ARCHAISTIC TEMPLE BELL, BIANZHONG KANGXI MARK AND PERIOD, DATED TO THE 54TH YEAR, CORRESPONDING TO 1715

robustly cast in barrel form, surmounted by a handle in the form of two dragons side-by-side facing opposite directions, each dragon with mouth open to reveal its tongue and fangs, the details of their manes and scales finely rendered, the gently bulging sides cast with four vertical panels, the front panel enclosing the reign mark Kangxi wushisi nian zhi set in a rectangular cartouche between a yinyang emblem and a solid line representing the male principal yang, the opposing similar panel cast with two characters beiyize denoting the bell's musical pitch, the side panels each with a scrolling archaistic kui dragon set between a ruyi and an angular scroll, the panels spaced equidistant between horizontal bands of alternating bosses and pairs of  trigrams, all above eight raised circular disks encircling the base, the wood stand carved with dragons in pursuit of flaming pearls

This fine bell is in very good condition with the exception of minor casting flaws, nicks, scratches and tiny dents to the extremities. The patination would benefit from a professional light clean.
"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."