宋 銅錯金銀饕餮紋沖天耳鼎式爐

of archaistic liding form, finely cast with a deep rounded body rising to a galleried mouthrim, all supported on three tubular legs, the rim surmounted by a pair of arched handles, both handles and rim inlaid with stylised archaistic swirl and whorl motifs, the exterior divided into two main registers by two thin raised fillets, the upper register decorated with a narrow band of flame motifs, the lower register with dissolved taotie masks, all intricately inlaid in gold and silver

Brian Harkins Oriental Art，倫敦，1980年代

The left handle has been restored, and appears to have been refixed to the body, possibly in antiquity. The back left leg appears to have been stabilised. As visible in the catalogue photo, there is rubbing and general loss of detail to the inlays.
"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."