A CARVED RHINOCEROS HORN LIBATION CUP 17TH/18TH CENTURY

of square section with canted corners, the exterior carved in shallow relief with a wide band of stylised taotie masks on a leiwen ground, all below small chilong in high relief clambering up the rim bordered by an angular scroll band, the handle formed from intertwined large and smaller chilong peering over the inner lip hemmed by a keyfret border, the horn of dark chocolate tone

The cup has nibbling along the rim, minor nicks both to the interior and exterior and short vertical cuts near the top of the handle . One of the small chilong on the handle is possibly partly lost and re-carved. The base has short light scratches each measuring circa 0.5cm. The foot has a circa 0.3 x 0.1cm nick but the cup is otherwise in good condition. The horn is of a darker chocolate tone compared to the catalogue illustration.
"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."