A LARGE ARCHAIC BRONZE RITUAL BELL, ZHONG WESTERN ZHOU DYNASTY

the body of elliptical section and barrel form with the two sides rising up in an arc, each side set with three rows of three bosses, evenly distributed and placed in the upper quadrants on both sides and divided by bands of smaller bosses separated by disintegrated zoomorphic scrolls in a fine line relief, the flat top decorated with a similar zoomorph scroll in a sunken relief and surmounted by a long tapering collared tubular shank with a lug for suspension, the surface covered overall with light malachite and azurite encrustation, together with: a small archaic bronze bell (zhong), Western Zhou dynasty

large bronze ritual bell: On loan to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York (1968-2009).
small bronze ritual bell: On loan to the Brooklyn Museum, New York (1967-2009).

The bell is in overall good condition. The suspension loop attached to the handle is bent to one side (visible in the catalogue photo). One of the bosses on one side is slightly bent – visible in the catalogue photo. The bell is covered on the exterior and interior with a evenly light green patina. There is some iron encrustation to one side, visible in the illustration.
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.