Grand Miroir en Bronze de Style 'Huai' Dynastie des Zhou Orientaux, Epoque des Royaumes Combattants, ca. IVE-IIIE siècle avant J.-C.

la prise centrale rubanée se rétrécissant au milieu, entourée d'une rosace à sept pointes en réserve sur fond d'enroulements, le large champ décoré d'un motif géométrique en forme de dragons sinueux stylisés entremêlés en relief plat, disparaissant parmi les volutes, les spirales et les triangles sur fond de pattes et de plumes, entouré d'une fine bande striée puis d'une bordure lisse et d'un rebord légèrement surélevé, les bords concaves, la patine brillante noire oxydée bleue et verte, accidents, D.W 36/3

Discovered in Suzhou, Anhui province (according to David-Weills's notes).

The x-ray shows that there are breaks across the surface of the mirror, some of them extending into the rim, most visibly a crack extending though the whole width of the mirror from one side of the rim to the other and that has been filled in parts and attachedin two places in the past. The x-ray also reveals that handle may have been replaced. There is extensive azurite encrustation to the surface on both sides. The bronze has patinated to a black tone, the surface on both sides shiny and lustrous. The mirror is finely and thinly cast, the reflective surface a little convex. The inventory number D.W. 36/3 is inscribed in white on the side of the mirror. The tone of the bronze and the azurite encrustation is more saturated than the catalogue illustration suggests.
"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."