A LARGE INCISED BRONZE DRAGON-HANDLED 'LOTUS' VASE 17TH CENTURY

the lobed baluster body surmounted by a tall trumpet neck, incised with lotus blossoms borne on foliate scrolls against a fine punched ground, with ruyi-lappets encircling the mouth, shoulder and body, and a row of raised ruyi-heads applied above the foot, the neck flanked by a pair of sinuous chilong-form handles above three raised fillets, the base cast with a six-character Xuande mark 

Sydney L. Moss, Ltd., London. 
Collection of Rodman C. Rockefeller.

The Second Bronze Age: Later Chinese Metalwork, Sydney L. Moss, Ltd., London, 1991, cat. no. 66.

The vase is in overall good condition. There are small nicks to the mouth and foot rims and the surface with wear, some scratches and some minor imperfections. The base appears to be a replacement.
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.

A 17th century gilt-bronze example with the scrolling lotus decoration cast in relief rather than incised, was sold in these rooms, 15th June 1983, lot 79.