well-cast, in the form of Laozi riding a water buffalo, the detachable rider sitting cross-legged, one arm placed on a three-legged arm rest and the other hand atop one raised knee, wearing long robes tied around the waist, the head with prominent brow finely articulated and with a benevolent expression, the animal crisply featured with its head lowered and turned sharply inward, depicted with weight transferred as if moving, with shaped apertures in the back of the robe and another opening under the armrest for smoke

The surface of both the human-form cover and ox-form body show signs of wear with nicks, minor dents and abrasion. In addition the surface has been polished. The ox-form censer body has a number of cracks and losses between the hind legs, and patched repairs to the underside of the neck, the area behind the right ear, and a number of smaller scattered filled patches. There are cracks visible to the neck behind the left horn, at the top of the spine and around the censer mouth. There is also scattered pitting and minor casting flaws, withthe number 28 lightly emgraved in the ox's side.
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.