A GOLD-SPLASHED BRONZE VASE QING DYNASTY, 17TH – 18TH CENTURY |

of bu form, sturdily cast with an ovoid body rising from a flat base to a waisted neck and everted rim, the shoulder flanked by a pair of loop handles, each modelled in the form of a mythical beast mask, the well-patinated surface with attractive gold splashes

There is general surface wear, including minute nicks to the base. The ring handles appear to be later added.
"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."

Gold splashed vases of this form appear to be an early Qing innovation. See a related ovoid form vessel, cast with a six-character Kangxi reign mark on its base, illustrated in Robert D. Mowry, China’s Renaissance in Bronze, Phoenix, 1994, pl. 34, from the Robert H. Clague collection. See also a gold-splashed archaistic vase decorated with dragons, illustrated in The Minor Arts of China, Spink & Son Ltd, London, 1983, p. 40, no. 51, and sold in these rooms, 8th April 2013, lot 137, from the Water, Pine and Stone Retreat collection.