A RARE ARCHAIC BRONZE RITUAL EWER AND COVER (HE) LATE WESTERN ZHOU DYNASTY, 9TH / 8TH CENTURY BC

of compressed globular form, supported by three sturdy conical legs, the body cast with a frieze of an undulating wave pattern surmounting rows of softly rounded ribs, a small loop handle emerging from a bovine mask at the side coaxial with a cylindrical spout, the fitted, domed cover linked to the body by small loop handles similarly decorated and with a hollow circular knop, a single pictogram on the inside of the cover and the interior base of the vessel which is most likely an unidentified clan sign, the mottled olive-green patina with malachite encrustation (2)

Japanese Collection, acquired before the 1960s.

In good condition. There is a chip to the rim.
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.

Jessica Rawson refers to the present form with its ribbing and hollow tripod feet as a Ying. The classification is derived from inscriptions on similar pieces where they are described as such.  For further commentary on the form, its origins and context please see Jessica Rawson, Western Zhou Ritual Bronzes from the Arthur M. Sackler Collections, vol IIb, Washington D.C., 1990, pp. 684-690. A very similar ewer, possibly the present example, is illustrated in Sueji Umehara, Shina kodo seikwa, 1961, vol. III, pl. CCLV.