The fine and rare 19th century full tip rhinoceros horn has been on display in the family home through several generations and the current owner didn’t really know its value until he saw something similar on an antiques television programme recently.

SURREY.- A Magnificent Rhinoceros Horn that has been in the same Surrey family since it was bought to the UK at the end of the 19th century is expected to fetch in the region of £30,000-50,000 when it is offered for sale by Catherine Southon Auctioneers and Valuers on Wednesday May 8th, 2013 at The Chateau, Coombe Lane, Shirley Hills, Surrey.

The Auction of just over 400 lots will comprise silver, ceramics, jewellery, vertu, collectables, furniture, pictures and works of art. The auction will begin at 12noon and viewing will take place on May 7 between 9am – 6pm and prior to the sale, 9am – 11am. For those who cannot attend the sale, there will be online bidding via the-saleroom.com.

The fine and rare full tip rhinoceros horn has been on display in the family home through several generations and the current owner didn’t really know its value until he saw something similar on an antiques television programme recently. The beautifully carved horn is mounted on a wooden stand and dates from the Qing Dynasty (late 19th century). It is finely carved in openwork with flowers and berries. A similar one sold in Hong Kong recently for £100,000.

When the owner unveiled the 19th century rhinoceros horn and stand from a shopping bag at a valuation day, Catherine was completely shocked, and immediately extremely excited at the thrill of handling such a fine and important work of art.