An agate ‘Chilong’ libation cup, Qing dynasty - Sothebys

the curved sides flaring gently at the rim, the handle and foot formed from a clambering chilong with bifurcated tail, opposite a tiger mask loop handle suspending a loose ring below the spout, the variegated stone of a beige-brown tone with darker inclusions, wood stand; together with an agate ‘peony and butterfly’ box and cover. Quantité: 4 - 15.2cm., 6in. Estimation: 3,000 - 5,000 GBP

PROVENANCE: Purchased in France, 20th June 1990 (libation cup) and 21st February 1991 (box).

Sotheby's. Fine Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art. London | 15 mai 2013 www.sothebys.com