AN INCISED BRONZE ARROW VASE MING DYNASTY

the compressed globular body rising to an elongated neck and galleried everted rim, all supported on a short foot, cast with a pair of tubular lug handles flanking the neck, the exterior incised with dense interlocking lotus scrolls issuing foliated vines, with a band of upright lappets above the foot, the base delicately incised with a four-character Xuande mark 

Acquired at Portobello Road Antiques Market, London, 1980s.

There is some pitting to the surface overall, a few dents and wear to the mouthrim as visible in the photo and some further minor dents to the footrim. There are some patches of malachite encrustation.
"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."

In Hawthorn's opinion, the quality of the casting, combined with the delicately incised mark, point to this vase being one of the rare Xuande reign-marked bronze vases which are indeed of the period.