Lot 185. A rhinoceros horn libation cup, 17th-18th century. Estimate £70,000 - 80,000 (€99,000 - 110,000). Unsold . Photo Bonhams.

Well carved with a small mythical toad inside the rim at the back, the handle formed as a double trunk of a leafy peach tree issuing long flowering and fruiting branches along the sides, a plum blossom branch at the front with a bird perched in it and another bird flying above it, wood stand. 15.5cm (6in) long (2). 

Provenance: a European private collection 

Note: The plum blossom symbolises winter and long life, and the peach longevity, whilst the pair of birds carries a related suggestion of union and fertility. The mythical toad on the inside of the present cup is a more unusual subject matter for rhinoceros horn carving but is nevertheless a familiar representative of the desire for wealth through its association with the Immortal Liu Hai. For an illustrated discussion on the carving of prunus and peach on rhinoceros horn, see J.Chapman, The Art of Rhinoceros Horn Carving in China, London, 1999, pp.169-174.

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