AN ARCHAIC BRONZE RITUAL WINE VESSEL, JUE SHANG DYNASTY

the deep U-shaped body rising from three tall blade legs to an open mouth set to one side with a pointed rim and to the other with a channelled spout flanked by a pair of tall posts with whorl finials, cast around the body with a band of taotie masks reserved on a dense leiwen ground and divided by a loop handle, the metal patinated to an olive green tone with malachite and cuprite encrustation

A Swiss Private Collection formed in the 1970s.

There is repair to a diagonal break across the pointed rim and across the mouth of the channelled spout including both posts, minor nibbles, holes and corrosion to the legs.
"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."