Lot 1203. An unusual bronze scoop, Han dynasty, circa 3rd-2nd century BC; 10½ in. (26.8 cm.) long, stand. Estimate USD 4,000 - USD 6,000. Price realised USD 9,375. © Christie's Images Ltd 2011.

The deep rounded bowl with everted rim leading into the hollowed handle which is cast on the interior with two characters, er rong, and is spanned at the curved end by a mask with bird-like tail, with mottled milky green encrustation inside and out. 

Provenance: J.T. Tai & Co., New York, prior to 1977.

Christie's. Property from the Arthur M. Sackler Collections, New York, 24 March 2011