Lot 179. A rhinoceros horn 'prunus' libation cup, 17th-18th century; 16cm (6 1/4in) long. Estimate £40,000 - 60,000 (€56,000 - 85,000). Unsold. Photo Bonhams.

The horn of an attractive reddish-brown tone, carved in relief around the exterior with prunus buds and flowers beside a folding leaf, all issued on branches extended from two stalks forming the handle of the cup and the openwork foot, the interior detailed with a fold of the leaf. 

Notes: One of the 'Three Friends of Winter', together with the pine and bamboo, the prunus symbolises strength and endurance. 

Compare a similar cup in the collection of the Chester Beatty Library, illustrated by J.Chapman, The Art of Rhinoceros Horn Carving in China, London, 1999, pl.214. 

A related libation cup was sold at Sotheby's Hong Kong, 8th October 2013, lot 3238; and another by Christie's London, 12 May 2009, lot 28.

Bonhams. FINE CHINESE ART, 12 Nov 2015 10:00 GMT - LONDON, NEW BOND STREET