Lot 3755. An important and extremely rare rhinoceros horn deer-form libation cup, Ming dynasty, 16th-17th century; 5 1/2 in. (14 cm.) wide. Estimate HK$4,000,000 - HK$5,000,000 ($520,000 - $650,000). Price Realized HK$4,580,000 ($591,476). © Christie's Images Ltd. 2011

The hollowed cup superbly carved as a powerful full-bodied recumbent deer, its front talon-like feet contentedly crossed at the front below the chest which bears the four-character inscription, Tianlu yongchang, 'Eternal prosperity', its rear legs partially tucked beneath the body which is adorned with ruyi cloud-like swirls, the animal's head naturalistically carved with the horns, eyes and nose slightly raised to act as a stand for the cup, its finely detailed fur and ears swept backwards, with long horns trailing behind and resting on its back to either side of a raised dorsal ridge terminating in a bushy tail falling in curls at the base, the stone of a rich walnut tone lightening slightly to a golden brown colour at the base.

Provenance: John Warrack, LL.D., Edinburgh
Previously sold at Sotheby's London, 12th November, 1974, lot 134
Acquired in London in the 1970s