A BRONZE 'CHAMPION VASE' SONG TO EARLY MING DYNASTY

cast in the form of two tubular pedestal vases flanking an eagle standing on the head of a bear with outstretched limbs, the eagle suspending a fixed ring from its beak with its wings outstretched across both vases, each vase divided into two registers by three raised fillets, the upper register with stylised ruyi scrolls, and lower register with pendent archaistic cicada lappets, the bear's hindquarters and bifurcated tail protruding at the bottom on the reverse, below a handle in the form of a chilong conjoining both vases, the bronze patinated to a dark greenish-brown tone

there is extensive oxidisation and degradation to the surface detail. There is evidence of repair, consolidation to the body at the front right mouth, and at the back of the right mouth, where the chilong talon meets the body. Other general surface wear.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Many different examples of champion vases are known in jade and bronze, some of which ingeniously incorporate archaic relics such as chariot fittings, thus creating a demonstrable link to the revered past. Many of these champion vases have inlaid decoration, but the present example relies entirely on the fine surface treatment and the natural patination combined with artificial encrustations for its aesthetic impact.

For another Song to early Ming dynasty gold and silver-inlaid champion vase, see Paul Moss and Gerard Hawthorn, The Second Bronze Age. Later Chinese Metalwork. Sydney Moss Ltd., London, 1991, cat. no. 35, where the authors point out that the term ‘champion vase’ (‘ying xiong’) is almost certainly a post-Han term referring to the two animals: the falcon ('ying') and the bear ('xiong'). Compare also the champion vase from the Salting Bequest in the Victoria and Albert Museum, London, illustrated by Rose Kerr, Later Chinese Bronzes, London, 1990, cat. no. 57.