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Lot Essay
There are some Ming rhinoceros horn libation cups showing similar grapes design illustrated in Bamboo, Wood, Ivory and Rhinoceos Horn Carvings - The Complete Collection of Treasures of the Palace Museum, Hong Kong 2002, p.125, pl.114 and pp.144-145, pl.130.
But it was during the 17th century and particularly during the reign of Kangxi (1662-1722) that this motif with squirrels and grapes became very popular. Thus, it appeared on various supports such as rhinoceros horns but also nice porcelain and cloisonné pieces.
Compare also the current cup with another one dated 17th century, finely carved with a squirrel and bunches and illustrated in T. Fok, Connoisseurship of Rhinoceros Horn Carving in China, Hong Kong 1999, pl.171.
See also a very similarly carved rhinoceros horn cup sold in our New York Rooms, 23 March 1995, lot 138.
But it was during the 17th century and particularly during the reign of Kangxi (1662-1722) that this motif with squirrels and grapes became very popular. Thus, it appeared on various supports such as rhinoceros horns but also nice porcelain and cloisonné pieces.
Compare also the current cup with another one dated 17th century, finely carved with a squirrel and bunches and illustrated in T. Fok, Connoisseurship of Rhinoceros Horn Carving in China, Hong Kong 1999, pl.171.
See also a very similarly carved rhinoceros horn cup sold in our New York Rooms, 23 March 1995, lot 138.