A RARE AMBER 'CAMELLIA' LIBATION CUP QING DYNASTY, 17TH – 18TH CENTURY

the vessel modelled as a floral bloom with an undulating rim and a stamen picked out on the interior, the stem further issuing a thin twig with budding blooms, the translucent amber of a rich and warm orange colour and suffused with its characteristic network of fine crackles, original wood stand

Minor chips and bruises to the fragile extremities, some of which have been possibly smoothed down. Otherwise overall good 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. 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."

Libation cups are frequently found in rhinoceros horn, jade and other materials, but it is rare to find an example in amber. For a rhinoceros horn libation cup carved with a design of camellia flowers, in The Chester Beatty Library, Dublin, see Jan Chapman, The Art of Rhinoceros Horn Carving in China, London, 1999, fig. 200, p. 163; and another similar example sold in our New York rooms, 17th March 2009, lot 66. For another rare amber vessel of comparable quality sold at auction, see the brushwasher sold at Christie’s Hong Kong, 28th November 2012, lot 2393.