Warring States, 475-221 BC. A bronze vessel with cylindrical body with two separate horizontal bands decorated with low relief gilt frieze of wheeled covered vehicles and retainers on horseback; tao-t'ieh masks with lose rings; supported on three legs in the shape of bears with carnelian turquoise inlays; to the lid a stylised mountain with ring with series of deer and birds below; frieze with mounted archers hunting deer; to the frieze three rats on hind legs. Accompanied by an Art Loss Register certificate. 2.1 kg, 22cm (8 1/2"). Property of a London collector; by inheritance from his grandfather; acquired during travels in the Far East in the 1920s. The zun is a type of ancient Chinese bronze or ceramic wine vessel with a round or square vase-like form, and sometimes in the shape of an animal. Used in religious ceremonies to hold wine, the zun has a wide lip to facilitate pouring. [A video of this lot is available on the TimeLine Auctions website]

Fine condition. Professionally cleaned and preserved by Colin Bowles Ltd.,with photographic records a copy of the original invoice for the work done.