AN ARCHAIC BRONZE RITUAL AXE-HEAD (YUE) SHANG DYNASTY, 12TH / 11TH CENTURY BC

the wide flattened blade flaring towards the curved cutting edge, both sides cast in shallow relief with two confronted kuilong between two rectangular holes and a semi-ovoid mouth with fangs, the haft pierced with a circular hole and decorated with taotie masks in thread-relief incorporating the pictograph for zi (son), the gray-green patina with areas of malachite encrustation, metal stand (2)

J.J. Lally & Co., New York.

There are small chips to the edge of the blade. Otherwise, in good condition. The axe is more of a blue-green color compared to the catalogue 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.

Similar axe-heads are illustrated in Max Loehr, Chinese Bronze Age Weapons, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, 1956, pls. II,  III, V and VIII.  The line-work on the taotie decoration on this present lot is particularly fine. The taotie would have been inlaid, probably with turquoise or other precious materials.  A very rare example with intact inlay was sold at Christie's London, 6th June 1994, lot 67.  Similar examples without the inlay were sold in these rooms, 4th November 1978, lot 273, and in our London rooms, 19th June 1984, lot 4.