A carved rhinoceros horn 'prunus' libation cup Qing Dynasty, 18th / 19th century

of truncated tapering form raised on a short spreading foot, the rim slightly shaped to a rounded spout with incurved indentations framing either side, opposite the handle formed by a thick branch of flowering prunus blossoms, with two shaped panels enclosing archaistic gui dragons on each side, divided by a circular swirl medallion below the spout, all carved in low-relief and reserved on a keyfret ground

There is a missing 'stem' piece on the handle approximately 1/2 inch long. Near the handle on the interior is a small circular irregular bump, which appears indigenous to the horn. The surface has several vertical age cracks, some of which have been filled in, one crack not filled in 5/8 inch long. The cup is in good condition overall.
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.

Compare a closely related rhinoceros horn cup with archaistic roundel decoration and a prunus blossom handle in the Gerard Levy Collection, Paris, illustrated in Jan Chapman, The Art of Rhinoceros Horn Carving in China, London, 1999, no. 195.