Lot 23. Rare well-carved rhinoceros horn 'lotus' libation cup, Qing dynasty, 17th century; 17.3cm high. Estimate £50,000 - £70,000. © Lyon &Turnbull

carved following the natural shape of the horn as a large lotus leaf issuing from a stem, tied with a ribbon with stems issuing lotus blossoms, buds and pots, the horn of a warm caramel tone.

Note: For a similar rhinoceros horn libation cup, also from the 17th century, see Christie''s sale in their London rooms on 10.05.2011, lot 8, sale 7964.