AN ARCHAIC BRONZE RITUAL WINE VESSEL (JUE) LATE SHANG DYNASTY, 13TH-11TH CENTURY BC

the deep U-shaped cup supported by three triangular blade splayed feet, the arched mouth set with two erected posts with mushroom-shaped caps, the body with a loop handle and decorated with a frieze with two pairs of eyes in relief, against fine spirals centred by two narrow flanges, a two-character inscription beneath the handle, the bronze with olive-green malachite encrustation

Collection of Mr and Mrs Malcolm E. McPherson, acquired in Tokyo in the early 1950’s.
Christie's New York, 17th September 2008, lot 352.

San Francisco, Golden Gate Park, Hall of Flowers, Treasures of the Orient, Society for Asian Art, 1979, no. 6.

The X-rays reveal that the jue is in good condition. There are heavy patches of encrustation and stabilized bronze disease around the vessel particularly around the spout.
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.