cast with a zhadou-form body supported on a domed foot and set with a handle in the shape of sprig of lingzhi, the globular body cast in low relief with two sinuous chilong prowling and grasping lingzhi in their jaws, the bushy manes flowing outward to frame their faces, all against a finely stippled ground, a band of lingzhi heads forming the cupped mouth and undulating rim, the base cast with a character 

The cup is in overall good condition with only small shallow flakes to the surface from oxidation. The exterior and base have been cleaned.
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 cup is unusual in its zhadou-form body and its inclusion of mythical animals in the otherwise plant-inspired motif. A number of small cast-silver cups that have floriform designs have been excavated from Song and Liao dynasty sites, such as two Song dynasty footed lotus-form cups discovered in Pingqiao Village, Liyang County, Jiangsu province, and now in the collection of the Zhenjiang Museum, illustrated in Zhenjiang chutu jinyinqi [Gold and Silver Wares Unearthed in Zhenjiang], Beijing, 2012, pls 39-40; along with three further silver floriform cups from the same site and period, ibid. pls. 36-38; and a related silver cup excavated in a Liao tomb at You'ai Village, Baiyinhan Township, Baling Right Banner and now in the collection of the Inner Mongolia Museum, Huhehaote, and exhibited in Gilded Splendor: Treasures of China’s Liao Empire (907 – 1125), Asia Society, New York, 2006, cat. no. 92b. See a related pair of Song dynasty silver footed floriform cups sold in these rooms, 31st March - 1st April 2005, lot 170.