A carved rhinoceros horn 'mallow flower' libation cup Qing dynasty, 18th Century

the vessel in the form of a five-petaled mallow flower hollowed to form the cup, set upon a thick projecting stalk intertwined with further stems, all rising from the rounded tip of the tall reticulated base, with small buds, serrated leaves and blossoming mallow flowerheads wrapped around the exterior of the cup, the horn of reddish-brown tone, stand (2)

Collection of Kenyon V. Painter, Cleveland, Ohio & Arusha, Tanzania, circa 1910s-40s.
By descent to the present owners.

The projecting stalk is missing areas of the adjoining stem, the most significant approximately 1 3/4 inches long. A small stem near the missing area with cracks to two ends and is fragile, will need restoring. The rim with one triangular chip 1/2 inch long x 3/8 inch deep, and another chip filled in 1/4 inch across. The horn is of uneven tone, with some patches of magenta-red and one dark brown area to the interior.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

A similar cup in the form of a mallow flower with the stem forming the ring foot was sold in these rooms, 19th September 2002, lot 183.