Lot 3268. A spinach green jade lotus leaf-form libation cup, Qing dynasty, 18th-19th century, 7 in. (18 cm.) long, box. Estimate HKD 400,000 - HKD 600,000. Price realised HKD 1,000,000 © Christie's Images Ltd 2017

The cup is carved in imitation of a rhinoceros horn libation cup as a lotus leaf with undulating edges borne atop craggy rock that forms the base, from which also rise entwined stems of budding lotus blossoms. The exterior is further carved and pierced in high relief with a lotus pond scene; including two mandarin ducks holding together a sprig of lotus in their beaks, egrets perched on branches catching fish and a crab.

Provenance: A French private collection, acquired circa 2007

Christie's. The Imperial Sale / Important Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art, 31 May 2017, Convention Hall