An Archaic Bronze Ritual Vessel, Liding. Shang Dynasty

the lobed body raised on three tall robust legs issuing from three taotie masks each symmetrically centred on shaped lobes and vertical flanges, all below a short waisted neck and broad everted rim, the metal patinated to a dark grey tone with even light malachite encrustation. 17.8cm., 7in. Estimate 4,000—6,000 GBP

NOTE: A closely related example is illustrated in Sueji Umehara, Shina shodo seikwa, pt. I, vol. II, pl. 97; another in the National Palace Museum, Taipei, is published in Masterworks of Chinese Bronze in the National Palace Museum, Taipei, 1971, pl. 2; another was sold in these rooms, 29^th March 1977, lot 165; and a fourth example was sold in our New York rooms, 13^th March 1969, lot 6.

Fine Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art. 05 Nov 08. London. Photo courtesy Sotheby's. www.sothebys.com