South German, 17th century

both with a circular white label inscribed 144/16 on the underside

Collection Tim H. Clarke, Kent

The condition of both goblets is good. There is wear and some minor dirt to the surface consistent with age. The taller goblet shows stable hairline splitting consistent with material with larger splits in the cup. There is one stable, naturally occurring fissure in the ivory stem. The ivory is has a greenish staining on the inside. The larger cup has has several chips around the rim of the cup and the foot; one chip on the rim has been smoothed out. The shorter goblet was turned in three sections, two of which can be unscrewed at the stem.
"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."

RELATED LITERATURE
T.H. Clarke, The Rhinoceros from Dürer to Stubbs, 1515-1799: An Aspect of the Exotic, London, 1986; T.H. Clarke, 'I am the Horn of a Rhinoceros', Apollo, May 1987, pp. 344-49