十七至十八世紀 犀角雕荷花盃

naturalistically modelled in the form of a finely veined lotus leaf with furled edges, the exterior carved in high relief with a smaller leaf, lotus flower, arrowheads and a curved stem bearing budding and flowering three-petalled blooms, set on one side with an openwork handle formed from intertwining stems issuing an arrowhead and a blossoming flower extending over the rim onto the interior, the base later added and worked as a lotus bloom bursting with pod seeds, the horn patinated to a chestnut-brown colour with a lighter golden-honey tone around the edges, wood stand

The base has been reduced and possibly with a later addition. There is an old break and associated repair near the top of the handle. The interior and small areas of the rim have been lightly polished. There are generally some minor chips, small bruises and areas of retouching.
"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."

Skilfully fashioned in the form of a large lotus leaf adorned by further flowers and leaves, this vessel has successfully incorporated the natural markings of the rhinoceros horn into the overall design to give it an added naturalism, particularly the stems that form the handle.

The lotus leaf itself is possibly one of the most popular decorative themes in the rhinoceros horn carver's repertoire, symbolising purity and associated with the pure and virtuous character of the gentry and scholar-literati.

A slightly larger cup modelled in the form of a lotus leaf and also carved on one side with similar three-petalled blooms, from the Qing court collection and still in Beijing, is illustrated in The Palace Museum Collection of Elite Carving, Beijing, 2004, pl. 194.