A small rhinoceros horn cup without decoration. Qing dynasty. Photo Bonhams

The small horn of irregular oval section and flattened conical silhouette with a shallow recess running up one side and a shallow recessed well displaying a dark caramel brown hue in subtle contrast to the more golden brown surfaces of the exterior. 2 1/2in (6.5cm) high; 3 1/2in (9cm) long. Sold for US$47,500

Bonhams. Fine Asian Works of Art, 20 Dec 2011. California, San Francisco www.bonhams.com