A LARGE AND IMPRESSIVE ARCHAISTIC SILVER AND GOLD-INLAID BRONZE VASE, HU QING DYNASTY, 18TH CENTURY

the square pear-shaped body rising from a tall spreading foot to a broad waisted neck set with a pair of gold-inlaid phoenix handles, cast around the exterior with broad taotie and cicada bands divided by notched flanges, the rim with a silver-wire keyfret band, the base with four-line archaic inscription, the metal patinated to a reddish dark chocolate tone

The Art of the Oriental Bronze Metallurgist: China, Korea, Japan 1500 BC - AD 1911, Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami, January 19th - February 26th, 1978, cat.no.98.

The bronze hu is in very good condition with the exception of some light rubbing and scratches to the patination on the lower body and some tiny nicks/original casting flaws to the rim and heads of the phoenix handles. It should be noted that the bronze is of a slightly warmer dark chocolate brown tone than the catalogue illustration would suggest.
"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."

The lengthy inscription may be translated as '.... fu makes this precious vessel in order to make filial offerings to his ancestors, as well as to pray for longevity. May his son of son's and grandson of grandson's eternally use this precious vessel'.