A rhinoceros horn 'magnolia' libation cup, 17th-18th century. Estimate £25,000 - 30,000 (€35,000 - 42,000). Photo Bonhams.

The deeply-hollowed cup formed as an open magnolia flower and carved in high relief on the exterior with smaller blossoms all issuing from a delicate leafy branch encircling the cup to form the base. 8cm (3 1/8in) high 

Note: The magnolia is a symbol of feminine beauty and charm, and is a popular subject for rhinoceros horn as its trumpet-shaped flowers lend themselves to the restrictions of the natural shape of the horn. A related cup from the collection of the Chester Beatty Library, Dublin, is illustrated in J.Chapman, The Art of Rhinoceros Horn Carving in China, London, 1999, pp.166-167. Compare a similar rhinoceros horn libation cup, sold in these rooms on 10 November 2011, lot 439.

Bonhams. FINE CHINESE ART, 12 Nov 2015 10:00 GMT - LONDON, NEW BOND STREET