A PAIR OF ARCHAIC BRONZE VASES AND COVERS (FANGHU) HAN DYNASTY |

each of square section, the pear-shaped body rising from a slightly splayed foot to a waisted neck, flanked by a pair of beast-mask handles each suspending a loose ring, the sloping cover surmounted by four hooked rings, the surface with patches of reddish-white and malachite encrustation (4)

Sotheby's New York, 19th September 2001, lot 12.

Both vases and covers are in overall good condition. The exterior and interior surface have been cleaned and repatinated.
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.

Compare a similar bronze fanghu excavated at Shuihudi, Yunmeng, Hubei province, now in the Yunmeng County Museum, published in Zhongguo qingtongqi quanji [Complete collection of Chinese archaic bronzes], vol. 12, Beijing, 1998, pl. 9; and another in the collection of the Fujii Yurinkan, Kyoto, illustrated in Sueji Umehara, Nihon shucho Shina kodo seikwa [Select Relics of Ancient Chinese Bronzes from Collections in Japan], vol. 6, Osaka, 1964, pl. 471.