A BRONZE RITUAL WINE VESSEL (JUE) LATE SHANG DYNASTY, 12TH-11TH CENTURY BC

the deep U-shaped body supported on three tapering blade legs, cast with a band on a leiwen ground forming two taotie masks separated and bordered by three notched flanges, a two-character inscription cast under the bovine-mask loop handle, further blades beneath the spout, set with a pair of dome-capped posts with 'fire-whorl' motif, the dark-brown patina with patches of malachite encrustation

Acquired in Beijing, 1934.

The x-ray images reveal that one of the posts has been off and reattached. There is a restored V-shaped chip to the rim near the spout. There is a restored patch and associated restored cracks to the lower body. The tip of one leg has been restored.
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.