A RARE ARCHAIC BRONZE 'TAPIR' RITUAL VESSEL AND COVER, YOU EARLY WESTERN ZHOU DYNASTY |

of elliptical form, well cast with a compressed pear-shaped body resting on a splayed foot, the neck bordered with a band enclosing scrollwork and a small animal head mask on each side of the body, interrupted by two small loop handles supporting the U-shaped bail handle with a crisply cast tapir-mask terminal on each end, the cover resting on tall waisted sides, the domed upper surface decorated with a frieze enclosing similar scrollwork surrounding a hollow oval finial, the interior of the vessel and cover each with an inscription reading Xian zuo lüyi ('Xian made this lüyi vessel'), the patina of a mottled greyish-green colour with malachite encrustation, wood stand and Japanese wood box

The handle has a restored crack. There are areas of oxidation, minor dents and occasional losses, especially to the cover, all consistent with age. X-ray images and laboratory report are available upon request, which show three small areas of stabilisation on the cover from the original casting process.
"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."