AN ARCHAISTIC GOLD-INLAID BRONZE VESSEL (HU) QING DYNASTY, 18TH CENTURY

supported on a tall pedestal foot, the mouth encircled by a key-fret band above bands of archaistic phoenix, taotie, pendent cicada blades and kuilong, each band highlighted with gold inlay and interrupted by notched flanges, the sides set with opposing phoenix handles, the base with a dedicatory inscription in archaic script taken from the Man Gong Fu xu

There are scattered minor nicks along the edges, age-related surface wear, and residue of metal polish in the crevices of the surface decoration. There are some minute holes in the base and a repair to the edge of the foot.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The inscription on the base of the present lot is taken from a Western Zhou dynasty xu, which appears to be no longer extant, but whose likeness and inscription are preserved in ink rubbings.  The inscription may be translated as 'Man Gong Fu had this precious vessel made for veneration of the ancestors, beseeching them to bestow longevity. May his sons and grandsons treasure and use it for ten thousand years', and reads Man Gong Fu zuo bao xu yongxiang Xiaozongshi yong gai meishou zizi sunsun yong bao yong.

Two larger vessels of similar shape and decoration have been sold in these rooms, 20th March 2012, lot 77, and 30th March 2006, lot 146; another, slightly larger than the present lot at 18½ in., was sold in our London rooms, 10th November 2010, lot 19.