AN ARCHAIC BRONZE RITUAL WINE VESSEL (GU) SHANG DYNASTY

the trumpet neck finely cast with four cicada blades extending to the rim, above a band of small kui dragons, the central section with two horned taotie masks divided and interspersed with notched flanges, the bulging eyes in high relief, with further taotie masks and flanges on the splayed foot, the central and lower part of the body with two raised filets and pierced with two cruciform apertures, the patina of overall silver-green with some encrustation, a pictogram inside the foot

The neck and flared part of the mouth broken into several pieces which were reattached and restored at a later date.
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.