the globular body supported on three ring-and-cabriole legs each inlaid with malachite in spirals and modified keyfret, a pair of ring handles each with a comma-shaped extension similarly inlaid and set just below the rim, the rim with a band of large pendent triangles, each inlaid with malachite tesserae and enclosing an abstract 'confronting bird' motif in gilt wire, the complementary upright triangles each inlaid with a similar motif in silver wire against a gilt-bronze ground, a band of modified classic scroll inlaid in reddish copper alloy encircling the midpoint of the vessel, a register of malachite-inlaid pommel scrolls just below, followed by another band of copper-inlaid modified classic scroll, the underside with four coiled kuilong suspended around a central circle all inlaid in malachite and accented with reddish copper flourishes, the later Japanese reticulated silver domed cover with an elephant-form knop (2)

Collection of Stephen Junkunc, III (d. 1978).

The rim with a consolidated crack and associated losses extending approximately 2 1/2 inches with filled repair; the remainder of the rim with some small nicks and dents. There is a small loss to the tip of one handle. The inlaid decoration with scattered losses as well as some restoration. The surface with expected wear overall, cleaned and the patina refreshed.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The present vessel derives its form and stylized motifs from ritual bronze food vessels (dui) of the Warring States period (ca. 475-221). Dui vessels of antiquity also had a hemispherical body supported on three shaped legs and set with a pair of loop handles, and the cover replicated the design so that the total vessel formed a sphere with loops and legs extending from it. Compare, for instance, a Warring States period dui and cover that is of similar form to the present vessel, sold at Christie's New York, 21st March 2002, lot 67. The revivalist impulse characterizing the present vessel, the style of the inlaid motifs, and the application of multiple materials in the inlay are consistent with other Ming dynasty bronze ritual vessels including a bird-spouted tripod pouring vessel and cover sold at Christie's Paris, 13th June 2018, lot 188; a silver- and gold-inlaid bronze tapir-form zun, from the Water, Pine and Stone Retreat Collection, sold in our Hong Kong rooms, 8th April 2013, lot 171; and an inlaid hu vessel sold at Christie's New York, 14th-15th September 2018, lot 1260.