A BRONZE FOLIATE-FORM DISH SONG TO MING DYNASTY

cast with shallow sides rising from a flat base to a lobed rim, divided into six lobes by short ridges radiating around the cavetto, the surface of a variegated brown colour with malachite-green encrustation

there is extensive malachite-green encrustration, as visible in the catalogue photo. Other general surface wear.
"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."

The dish is a rare surviving example of a petal-shaped dish more commonly found in porcelain and lacquer. For a larger bronze dish of flower shape, convincingly dated to the 14th/15th century, see Gerard Hawthorn, Oriental Works of Art, London, June 1997, cat. no. 5. Both the current example and the Hawthorn example are thinly cast, giving them an elegance and refinement similar to that of the finest Dingyao porcelain.