A VERY LARGE AND RARE ARCHAIC JADE RITUAL BLADE LATE SHANG / EARLY WESTERN ZHOU DYNASTY

of slightly tapered rectangular shape, three sides with thin rounded edges, the cutting edge cut slightly obliquely as is the roughly-finished grooved edge of the butt, with a single circular aperture showing traces of a hole of smaller diameter, the stone a mottled grayish-green color with black flecks and some buff flaws

Collection of D. David-Weill, Paris.
Sotheby & Co., London, 29th February 1972, lot 32.

Arts de la Chine Ancienne, Musée de l'Orangerie, Paris, 1937, no. 72.

Georges Salles, Arts de la Chine Ancienne, Paris, 1937, cat. no. 72.

In good overall condition. There is a 2 inch chip to the short edge. There are two small 1/8 inch chips to the edge. There is a 2 inch and a 1 inch deep scratch on either side of the circular aperture on one side. There is a 1 1/4 inch deep scratch next to the circular aperture on the other side. There is a 1 inch area and three small scattered area close to the edge which is a natural flaw which has now chipped off. The actual color of the piece is quite close to the illustration in the catalogue.
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.