A fine rhinoceros horn cup, 17th-18th century. Photo Bonhams

The interior carved as a flaring petalled blossom, the handle as a large chilong biting the rim and with long leafy stems of blossoming peony and plum blossom rising from the coiled stem base. 16.5cm (6½in) long. Lot 218^Y.  Estimate: £100,000 - 150,000 / CNY 1.0 million - 1.5 million / HK$ 1.2 million - 1.8 million. 

十七/十八世紀 犀角雕螭柄花卉紋杯 

The peony is one of the most popular botanical motifs in Chinese art. It is associated with wealth and honour. A blossoming peony as on the present libation cup, fuguihua, represents the wish: may you be prosperous.

Bonhams. 17 May 2012 10 a.m. London, New Bond Street. Fine Chinese Art