A RARE BAMBOO-ROOT 'RHINOCEROS-HORN IMITATION' RHYTON QING DYNASTY, 18TH CENTURY

modelled after a rhinoceros horn libation cup, the protruding central section resting on a flared foot with a lipped rim, all surmounted by a flared mouth, carved in low relief around the middle section with two opposing pairs of phoenix writhing sinuously amidst clouds, an 'S'-scroll handle on one side with six chilong clambering on it, the other side with three further chilong clambering on the exterior of the vessel, the bamboo of an even golden brown colour

Littleton and Hennessy Asian Art Ltd.

Overall good condition, with just minute chips to the rim and fragile extremities of the handle. There are typical age cracks throughout, particularly on the interior, and pinholes.
"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."

For another bamboo cup carved in the form of a rhinoceros horn libation cup with pine, in the Staatliches Museum Für Volkerkunde, Munich, see Jan Chapman, The Art of Rhinoceros Horn Carving in China, London, 1999, p. 260, pl. 377. For examples of the prototype, of similar archaistic form and carved with chilong, see an example from the Qing court collection, preserved in the Palace Museum, Beijing, illustrated in Bamboo, Wood, Ivory and Rhinoceros Horn Carvings. The Complete Collection of Treasures of the Palace Museum, Hong Kong, 2002, pl. 133; and an example by Hu Xingyue from the Mary and George Bloch collection, sold in these rooms, 23rd October 2005, lot 42.