明 銅獅頭四峰筆擱

cast in the form of a craggy mountain top with four peaks and the head of a mythical beast on one end forming the fifth peak, its mouth forming another opening, all above a turbulent sea with animals and sea creatures, the back pierced with one hole, wood stand (2)

The brushrest is in good condition overall. There is some expected wear to the base which is consistent with its 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.

Bronze mountain-form brush-rests combined as a waterdropper are very rare, though several may be found in ceramics, particularly in the first half of the 15th century. See a celadon brushrest combined as a waterdropper also of mountain-form, dated to the Ming dynasty in the Meiyintang Collection, illustrated in Regina Krahl, Chinese Ceramics from the Meiyintang Collection, London, vol. 1, 1996, no. 582.