Coupe libatoire en corne de rhinocéros sculptée Chine, Dynastie Qing, XVII-XVIIIE siècles

en forme d'une grande feuille de lotus entourée d'une variété de fleurs finement sculptées, les tiges et leurs feuillages formant l'anse, une grosse pivoine se détachant de la base, une mante-religieuse et un grillon émergeant de l'amas végétal, la corne d'une belle couleur caramel ambré évoluant vers le brun au centre et à l'extrémité du pied

Collection particulière européenne

This horn is very well carved and has beautiful color ; some losses to the back side of the foot (a part of a flower, few branches and other tiny losses) ; one leaf at the back of the foot has been re-stuck ; another loss (probably a small leaf) associated with other tiny losses in the middle of the handle ; tiny dents on some extremities, on two leaves and on the rim above the handle ; one small chip on the front rim of the cup ; slight old natural wears as expected ; the stand with small losses.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Cups with mantis design are rare, for another rhinoceros libation cup with lotus and mantis, see Thomas Fok, Connoisseurship of Rhinoceros Horn Carving in China, Hong Kong 1999, p. 167, pl. 117.