明末 / 清初 銅雙獅首耳三足爐

of compressed globular form with a broad, flat lip, cast with two taotie heads as handles and supported on three lobed cabriole legs emerging from taotie masks, the patina of a greenish-brown colour with some green areas, the base cast in kaishu with an apocryphal Xuande mark, rosewood stand

One of the feet has a 0.6cm loss that may be damage, or possibly a flaw in the original casting process. There is general surface wear and scratching. There is oxidisation to the body, especially extensive malachite encrustation to the interior. The patina is slightly darker in reality.
"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."