AN ARCHAISTIC BRONZE VASE YUAN DYNASTY

cast with a globular body rising from a splayed foot to a tall neck and a galleried mouthrim, the lower neck cast with a band enclosing an archaistic taotie mask against a leiwen ground, the globular body cast with a band enclosing similar motifs, the bronze patinated to a smooth dark brown colour 

The mouth and neck are slightly dented. Right ring handle has been broken off, and both have lost their rings. Overall condition is good, with just tiny chips to the mouth and foot, and minor 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."

This rare form exists in moulded qingbai ceramics, evidence of the strong relationship between bronzes and their less costly ceramic counterparts. In Ulrich Hausmann’s opinion, flower vases in bronze came first, and that it was only due to the later shortage of copper and the resulting high cost that ceramic versions began to be produced.