Lot 32
  • 32

AN ARCHAIC BRONZE RITUAL FOOD VESSEL (LI) WESTERN ZHOU DYNASTY, 9TH CENTURY BC

Estimate
5,000 - 7,000 USD
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Description

  • bronze
  • Width: 6 inches
the body divided into three lobes, supported on three slender tapering legs, each lobe cast with regular vertical striations, the body bisected by two inverted U-form handles, the wide flared mouth undecorated

Provenance

Bluett & Sons, London, 1973.

Condition

The vessel appears to be in overall good condition.
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.

Catalogue Note

The shape and combed decoration of this bronze vessel derive from ceramic prototypes popular during the Western Zhou period. Compare related examples excavated from mid-Western Zhou sites in Shaanxi province, illustrated in Jessica Rawson, Western Zhou Ritual Bronzes from the Arthur M. Sackler Collections, vol. IIB, Washington, D.C., 1990, pp. 322-323, figs. 27. 2 and 27.4. Compare also a li of similar size and design, from the Arthur M. Sackler Collections, illustrated ibid., pp. 330-331, no. 27.