A RHINOCEROS HORN LIBATION CUP QING DYNASTY, 17TH / 18TH CENTURY

resting on a nest of entwined tree branches forming a bifurcated pine and prunus branch handle to one side and bamboo on the other, forming the 'Three Friends of Winter', a large prunus blossom furled to form the cup, the exterior carved and undercut on one side with the figure of Shoulao riding on the back of a crane and Dongfang Shuo holding a peach branch over his shoulder on the reverse, each figure within a raised cloud-form reserve, the horn shading from a dark brown to a honey color

Sotheby's New York, 8th May 1981, lot 82.

One of the legs of the deer is broken and missing about 1/8 inch. There is an associated break just below the deer, with a chip approximately 1/4 inch. There is a 1/4 inch chip to one side of a prunus flower on the trunk. There is a chip to one of hte pine needle clusters. There are a few scattered chips to the piece. In good overall condition.
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.

Shou Xing, also known as Shoulao, the God of Longevity, enjoys frequent representation on carved rhinoceros libation cups.  On the present lot, the deity is recognizable by his high, domed forehead and is shown with his traditional companions: the crane and deer. The longevity theme continues on the reverse side with a depiction of Dongfang Shuo, the legendary peach stealer, as he escapes from Xi Wangmu's orchard with the goddess's peaches of immortality. The two scenes are set within clouds denoting their unearthly status and amidst further symbols of long life, pine and bamboo.  Given the belief of the rhinoceros horn's ability to prolong and protect life, it is not surprising that the medium's supposed properties would be reinforced through iconography.