明十七世紀 銅老子騎牛熏爐

heavily-cast, the detachable cover made in the form of the sage, wearing long robes tied around above the stomach, holding the Daodejing in the right hand, the large head with expressive face, the mouth and back pierced through to the hollow interior, resting atop a well-detailed water buffalo, the powerful beast with its head turned sharply inward and one leg raised

Michael Goedhuis，倫敦，1989年

Apart from minor nicks and the expected surface wear consistent with age and use, the cover is in good overall condition. The buffalo-form body has some wear and rubbing to the patina, and a long crack on the right side of its body that appears to be a casting flaw.
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.

Laozi is traditionally regarded as the founder of Daoism and the author of its foundational text, the Daodejing. 

According to historical documents, Laozi believed that the Zhou dynasty was declining and that the country would be plunged into chaos. He decided to leave the country and  head west through the Hangu pass. As he was going through the pass on the back of his buffalo, the magistrate in charge of the crossing, Yin Xi, asked him to leave some words of wisdom. Legend has it that it was then that the five-thousand character Daodejing was composed.