A SMALL UNUSUAL RHINCEROS HORN 'DOUBLE-GOURD' WASHER QING DYNASTY, 18TH CENTURY

the washer finely carved in the form of a double-gourd with delicate curling tendrils and leaves growing down the side and extending over the lip into the smooth interior, the leaves gently furling at the edges under which a small double-gourd is tucked under, with a large flower extending to one side and a small bumble-bee perching on the interior, the reverse carved with a gentle dimple to the lower bulb, with an original zitan stand finely carved with leafy branches, double-gourds and tendrils

There are small old chips, concentrated to the reverse, as a result of general wear and bugs. There is some loss to the carving of the tendrils, the largest of approx 0.7 by 0.1cm, and some losses to the leaves, the largest approx 0.7 by 0.2cm. There are some nibbles to the leaves and flower petals. There is a small area of red stain under the bee to the interior. Otherwise the washer is in good condition overall, the horn has an attractive patina.
"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."

Rhinoceros horn carvings of washers are rare and the present vessel is unusual for its double-gourd shape. No other carved example of water-vessels of this form appear to be recorded, although a plain rhonoceros horn water-vessel of double-gourd shape is illustrated in Thomas Fok, Connoisseurship of Rhinoceros Horn Carving in China, Hong Kong, 1999, pl. 59, together with a plain measuring scoop of double-gourd form, pl. 55.