Lot 275 , A Chinese archaistic bronze vessel, fanghu, Xuande mark but 17th/18th century, height 15.3cm

A Chinese archaistic bronze vessel, fanghu, Xuande mark but 17th/18th century, finely cast in relief to the upper band with stylised mythical beasts and a pair of zoomorphic mask handles, the lower band with stylised cicada lappets and inscribed side 'Da Ming Xuande nian zhi' and the opposing side with a longer inscription and seal marks, height 15.3cm
Estimate £2,000-3,000

compare a similar shape 17th/18th century bronze fanghu sold by Sotheby's, New York, Saturday at Sotheby's: Chinese Art sale, 21 March 2015, lot 793.

The vase has an olive-brown patina with areas of darker patina which are engrained into the bronze, there is wear to the foot consistent with age and use, there are a few minor dents and knocks to the very edge of the foot, otherwise the vase is in good condition with no restoration
Vase weights 1.65 kg and the top rim is 7.5cm wide, the aperture within it at its widest is 6.1cm. The top of the vase is slightly irregular in the casting. One side is a maximum of 1mm higher than the other.
Bought by a local buyer from a charity shop


Descriptions provided in both printed and on-line catalogue formats do not include condition reports. The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Interested bidders are strongly encouraged to request a condition report on any lots upon which they intend to bid, prior to placing a bid. All transactions are governed by Gorringes Conditions of Sale.

Sold for £28,500