04 mai 2018
A collection of rhinoceros horn libation cups at Bonhams London,
Lot 280. A very fine rhinoceros horn 'peony and mantis' libation cup, 17th-18th century; 15.3cm (6in) long. Estimate £ 20,000 - 30,000 (€ 23,000 - 34,000). © Bonhams 2001-2018
Exquisitely carved as an open magnolia blossom with overlapping petals, a naturalistic praying mantis to the well, the handle formed as smooth branches issuing 'insect-eaten' leaves and a further meticulously carved pair of peony blossoms forming the base of the vessel, the horn of warm brownish-honey tone.
Provenance: an... [Lire la suite]16 novembre 2011
A rare and finely-carved rhinoceros horn pouring vessel. 17th century, 'Xiao Yu' Two-character seal mark
A rare and finely-carved rhinoceros horn pouring vessel. 17th century, 'Xiao Yu' two-character seal mark. Photo Christie's Image Ltd, 2011
Of slightly flared cylindrical form, supported on a slightly splayed foot and rising towards a waisted neck, finely carved around the exterior of the body with taotie masks, each centred on vertical bands of 'C'-scrolls, delicately surmounted by three sinuous chilong with long elegant bifurcated tails in high relief, one crawling through the handle decorated with archaistic motifs on a leiwen... [Lire la suite]