An Inscribed Bronze Bell Qing Dynasty, Yongzheng Period, Dated in Accordance with 1732

the heavily cast body in the form of a barrel, the flat upper surface surmounted by an openwork handle cast in the form of stylised scrollwork, the interior hollow, the exterior of the gently curving sides cast in archaistic style with four panels, each with three rows of three raised bosses separated by flanges, the narrow panels at the side each gently incised with an inscription, one reading Yongzheng renzi chunyue zhi ('Made in the spring month of the renzi year in the Yongzheng period'), the other reading Wenmiao Bianzhong Yize Gong ('Yize made this bell for temple use')

As visible in the catalogue photo, there are minor dents and scratches to the extremities of the bell, especially to the flanges and underside. especially general denting and surface wear to the underside of the bell. There is general oxidisation to the surface.
"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."

A closely related bronze bell, also dated by inscription to 1732, was sold at Christie’s New York, 19th March 2009, lot 616.  For a large Kangxi bronze dated bell, see the example from the collection of Henry Peirson Harland, sold in these rooms, 8th April 2010, lot 1849.