AN ARCHAISTIC SILVER AND GOLD-INLAID BRONZE WINE VESSEL AND COVER, YOU MING DYNASTY

the pear-shaped body rising from a short spreading foot to a straight flanged rim, cast in low and medium relief with dragon taotie bands divided by taotie masks and vertical flanges variously inlaid in gold and silver, set at the shoulder with two loop handles suspending a high arched handle set with taotie mask terminals, the domed cover similarly decorated and surmounted by a lotus bud finial 

This vessel is in good condition, but there is a dent to one side of the rim, which has pushed it a little out of shape and there are also minor nicks to the rim. There is a small 1cm by 5mm chip to the rim of the cover and another smaller one 8mm by 2mm, as well as other minor nicks. There are also some minor nicks to the footrim.
"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."