A CELADON AND BROWN JADE 'BOVINE MASK' CARVING SHANG DYNASTY |

the wider end carved with two incurved horns framing a central aperture, the almond-shaped eyes incised beneath a raised brow and peering out over flared nostrils, the nostrils each with a pronounced rim extending down the side to form the edge of the lip, a pierced rectangular tab emerging from the mouth, the reverse with a smooth slightly concave surface, the stone a pale celadon color dappled with white and transmuting to an opaque mahogany tone at the horns

Galaxie Art & Gift Co. (B. K. Wong), Hong Kong, 30th July 1987. 
Collection of Florence (1920-2018) and Herbert (1917-2016) Irving, no. 76.

The mask with some areas of cloudy calcification. It is possible that there has been a resin repair to erosion of the corner of one horn. As expected there is wear overall, some erosion and pitting and the surface has been cleaned and polished.
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.
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