A rhinoceros horn libation cup, 17th century

Of deep, conical form, the exterior carved in relief with a writhing chilong grasping a lingzhi in its mouth amidst further sprays of lingzhi and leafy stalks of bamboo, the handle carved as a stalk of bamboo and a large lingzhi, the horn of dark caramel and golden honey tones. 5¾ in. (14.6 cm.) long. Estimate: $35,000 - $45,000

Christie's. Fine Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art. 17 September 2008. New York, Rockefeller Plaza. www.christies.com