17TH CENTURY

Details

A RARE RHINOCEROS HORN 'HIBISCUS' LIBATION CUP
17TH CENTURY
Finely carved as a large hibiscus flower, detailed in relief with a small chilong beside the stamen to the centre of the interior, one side of the exterior with hibiscus buds and leaves borne on strudy stems, the other with a day-lily amidst elegantly long curled leaves, the openwork handle formed by a chilong peering into the interior, the striated horn of an even caramel tone
5¾ in. (14.6 cm.) wide

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.

Présenté par

Caroline Allen

Consultez le rapport d’état ou contactez-nous pour obtenir des informations supplémentaires à ce sujet

callen@christies.com +44 (0)20 7389 2574

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Descriptif du lot

The decoration carved on the present lot is not only expertly rendered but also conveys a wealth of auspicious wishes. Hibiscus, mufurong in Chinese, is a pun for 'wealth' and 'glory'. Day-lilies, called baihe in Chinese, meaning 'hundred together', are associated with weddings.

Compare with a smaller rhinoceros horn libation cup also carved as an open hibiscus flower with a stamen to the centre, with a day-lily to the exterior which sold in our New York rooms, 22 March 2007, lot 150.

Please note this lot is accompanied by a letter from Animal Health agreeing that Christie's may sell it without further CITES certification and confirming that they would be likely to grant an export permit for it to leave the EU post-sale.

En savoir plus sur Important Rhinoceros Horn and Jade Carvings From A Distinguished European Collection

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