A LARGE GILT-SPLASHED BRONZE TWO-HANDLED BALUSTER VASE 17TH / 18TH CENTURY |

cast in two sections, with the tall trumpet neck fitted into the top of the lobed baluster-form body, the splayed foot studded with bosses and a ruyi-head collar cast in high relief around the shoulder, the base of the neck with two raised fillets below a pair of cloud-form handles set to either side, a band of low-relief dragons and leiwen around the mid-section of the neck, the deep brown patina with irregular gilt splashes, the base with an apocryphal six-character Xuande mark

The vase has a small aperture at the base indicating it was once mounted as lamp. The joint at the waist has been consolidated and the surface has been cleaned and the gilt decoration refreshed in areas. The surface also has characteristic pitting and wear consistent with age and use.
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.