An Inscribed Bronze Incense Burner, Liding Late Ming / Early Qing Dynasty

of archaistic liding form, the heavily cast body of compressed globular form supported on three small tapered feet, the lipped rim surmounted by a pair of arched handles, the patina of a dark blackish-brown colour, the base cast in relief within a recessed panel with a zhuanshu maker’s mark Ye Yushu zhi (‘Made by Ye Yushu’)

There is a 0.6cm dent to the underside of the incense burner. Other minor dents and bruises to the rim and tips of the feet. Other general surface wear and scratching. Extensive oxidisation to the surface. The patina is much darker colour than in the catalogue photo.
"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."

It is rare to find a bronze incense burner of a type normally cast with a Xuande mark, inscribed with a private maker’s name. Ye Yushu appears to be unrecorded in traditional connoisseurship, but it is possible, however, that the zhi here means ‘made for’ rather than ‘made by’ in which case it is more likely the name of the patron.