18TH CENTURY

Details

**A RHINOCEROS HORN LIBATION CUP
18TH CENTURY
Of flared form, deeply carved on the exterior with plum blossoms, pine boughs and bamboo forming the 'Three Friends of Winter,' issuing from twisted branches forming the base and handle
5 in. (12.7 cm.) long

Provenance

Christie's, London, 7 November 2006, lot 46.

Special notice

Prospective purchasers are advised that several countries prohibit the importation of property containing materials from endangered species, including but not limited to coral, ivory and tortoiseshell. Accordingly, prospective purchasers should familiarize themselves with relevant customs regulations prior to bidding if they intend to import this lot into another country.

Lot Essay

The decoration on this rhinoceros horn libation cup, pine, prunus and bamboo, known as the 'Three Friends of Winter', symbolizes the strength, purity and uprightness of the cultivated gentleman, and is a common decoration found in Chinese art.

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