A LARGE BRONZE DRAGON-HANDLED VASE 17TH / 18TH CENTURY

the wide-shouldered body surmounted by a tall trumpet neck, incised with a kuilong band and flanked by flattened addorsed kuilong handles above two raised fillets, the body unadorned except for petal-lappets encircling the shoulder and a row of bosses above the foot, the base cast in sunken relief with a four-character Xuande seal mark

Sydney L. Moss Ltd., London, 17th December 1991.
Collection of Rodman C. Rockefeller (1932-2000), New York.

The Second Bronze Age: Later Chinese Metalwork, Sydney L. Moss, Ltd., London, 1991, cat. no. 65.

There is an approximate 3.8-cm rim crack. The slightly uneven rim with a chip, scattered small nicks and scratches. One handle appears to have been reattached. There is a solder line around the base of the neck indicating it has been stabilized, reattached or possibly is associated with the body. The base of the vase has been replaced, and there is an approx. 1-cm patch applied to the body just above the base. The surface has some wear, including a 1 x 1.5-cm flake to the neck, among more minor flakes, scratches, minor dents.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.