清十七 / 十八世紀 銅蟬紋獅首耳方壺

the heavily cast vessel of rectangular section, the pear-shaped body rising from a short splayed foot to a waisted neck and a flared mouth, the shoulder cast with a pair of lion mask handles, the neck cast in low relief with a band of archaistic kui dragons against a leiwen ground, all above archaistic pendent cicada blades, the foot with a band of leiwen motifs, the countersunk base with an apocryphal six-character Xuande mark within a recessed panel, the surface patinated to a dark brown colour

apart from tiny chips to the mouth and foot rim, the vase is in good condition.
"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."