A RHINOCEROS HORN ‘FIGURE’ LIBATION CUP 17TH CENTURY

the exterior carved with a continuous scene depicting groups of scholars engaging in various leisurely activities and being attended by acolytes in a rocky landscape detailed with jagged cliffs and arboured with tall overhanging pine trees, including a group of three scholars attentively looking at a scroll and a scholar depicted sitting astride a horse and being fanned with a large plantain leaf by an acolyte, all supported on an openwork foot simulating further jagged rockwork, the horn of a dark brown colour

There are three old chips to the rim, the two largest approx. 2.5 cm (showing on the illustration in the catalogue). There are a few other minor chips to the depicted scene, including a small chip to two legs of both horses and to one figure's head. There are a few age cracks and insect bites visible on the interior, all consistent with age. The cup bears a rich dark brown 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."