- 557
A BRONZE 'DRAGON' MIRROR TANG DYNASTY
Estimate
50,000 - 70,000 HKD
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Description
- silver, bronze
crisply cast in relief, the central knob surrounded by a single three-clawed coiling dragon with an upturned snout and wings striding amidst cloud scrolls within a raised edge, the surface with a dark silvery grey patina
Condition
As visible in the catalogue photo, there is oxidisation to the surface. Other general surface wear, and minor bruising at the edges.
"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 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."
Catalogue Note
Bronze mirrors with the panlong or coiled dragon motif were exemplars of Tang-dynasty mirrors. Here the dragon takes flight amidst finely articulated clouds, its body coiled around the knob and its scales clearly delineated. The mirror is not only finely made but is also extremely well-preserved, with almost no sign of corrosion. Its silvery white sheen indicates a high tin content.