A BRONZE GARLIC-MOUTH VASE LATE MING DYNASTY

cast with a compressed globular body rising to an elongated, slightly tapered neck and a lobed garlic-bulb shaped mouth and lipped mouthrim, the neck collared with two protruding bands, the bulbous body similarly bordered with one protruding band, the bronze patinated to a dark chocolate-brown tone

The mouth is slightly bruised. There are small chips to the footling, and a crack to the underside. There is a prominent 2cm dent to the lower body. Other general surface wear and scratches and pinholes.
"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 flower vessel is elegantly cast with a garlic-shaped mouth, the elongated body attractively accentuated by ribbing suggestive of bamboo nodes, giving the vessel a strong organic feel. The shape evokes that of Han dynasty garlic-mouth vessels. One can imagine how attractive the vessel must look with a carefully chosen single stem of a shrub or flower.