AN EXCEEDINGLY RARE BRONZE FIGURE OF A DRAGON LIAO / JIN DYNASTY |

marvelously cast seated on three powerful legs, its right forepaw raised and holding a 'flaming pearl' in its claw, its ferocious head detailed with a pair of long curled horns above large protruding eyes and a long upturned snout exposing sharp fangs and a curled tongue, the scaly body sinuously curved with long flowing flames issuing from its shoulders and saw-tooth dorsal fin extending down its spine trailing to a upturned curving tail, the underside with two small square apertures, the surface with malachite and azure encrustation, traces of gilt

There are losses to a section of the tail, a section of the flame wisp extending from the left shoulder, tip of the mane, and tip of the right most talon on the right hind claw. There is a break to the flowing hair extending from the right elbow. There are a few scattered losses and expected age-related wear. A few extremities are slightly bent.
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.