A LARGE BRONZE ARROW-HANDLED VASE MING DYNASTY, 16TH CENTURY

massively cast with a compressed globular body rising from a splayed foot and surmounted by a tall cylindrical neck, the body cast in relief with archaistic motifs and a pair of taotie mask handles suspending a loose ring, interrupted by four raised ridges, the splayed foot similarly decorated with archaistic designs, all below a dragon writhing sinuously around the neck below a pair of tubular lug handles flanking the upper neck, the bronze patinated to a warm coppery-brown colour

There is a 2cm chip to the foot, and other cracks and bruises. There is a 1.5cm hole to the interior of the foot, possibly part of the original casting process. Minor chips to the mouth. Other bruising and general surface wear to the body.
"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."

For another large bronze ‘arrow’ vase, see Hugh Moss and Gerard Tsang, Arts from the Scholar's Studio, Fung Ping Shan Museum, University of Hong Kong, 1986, cat. no. 264, where the authors discuss the ritual of the arrow game (taohu) in reference to the Book of Rites (Liji), and illustrate the section on arrow vases from the Sancai Tuhui (1607). It is fascinating to note the large variety of the designs which existed at the end of the 16th century.