AN ARCHAIC BRONZE TRIPOD VESSEL, JUE WESTERN ZHOU DYNASTY

of characteristic form supported on three blade-feet, cast with a channelled spout opposite a pointed rim and two upright knobs, set with an animal mask projecting a loop handle on one side, the body decorated with archaistic motifs forming two taotie masks, the bronze with variegated malachite and cuprite encrustations, inscribed wood stand

A section of the loop handle and the leg below it have been broken off and re-affixed to the vessel. There is an old repair in the cast to the bottom of the vessel showing on the underside. There may be further occasional small repairs. There is some malachite and cuprite encrustation overall, consistent with the type and age. The patina is good. (The vessel has not been inspected under X-ray.)
"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."

An old inscription on the wood base reads:
'Chow dynasty -B.C. 1121-256 (Chinese dynasties). Bronze libation cup (Chueh) with T'ao-T'ieh mask ornament - Recently excavated at Loyang of Honan [sic.] province'.
Compare a Western Zhou jue sold in our New York room, 16th September 2009 and another sold at Sotheby's Paris, Thursday, December 12, 2013, lot 202, from the Willem Van Heusden collection.