A rhinoceros horn libation cup. Qing dynasty, 17th-18th century.

A rhinoceros horn libation cup. Qing dynasty, 17th-18th century. Photo Sotheby's

resting on a nest of entwined tree branches forming a bifurcated pine and prunus branch handle to one side and bamboo on the other, forming the 'Three Friends of Winter', a large prunus blossom furled to form the cup, the exterior carved and undercut on one side with the figure of Shoulao riding on the back of a crane and Dongfang Shuo holding a peach branch over his shoulder on the reverse, each figure within a raised cloud-form reserve, the horn shading from a dark brown to a honey color; width 6 in., 15.2 cm. Estimate 25,000—35,000 USD. Lot Sold 278,500 USD

PROVENANCE: otheby's New York, 8th May 1981, lot 82.

NOTE: Shou Xing, also known as Shoulao, the God of Longevity, enjoys frequent representation on carved rhinoceros libation cups. On the present lot, the deity is recognizable by his high, domed forehead and is shown with his traditional companions: the crane and deer. The longevity theme continues on the reverse side with a depiction of Dongfang Shuo, the legendary peach stealer, as he escapes from Xi Wangmu's orchard with the goddess's peaches of immortality. The two scenes are set within clouds denoting their unearthly status and amidst further symbols of long life, pine and bamboo. Given the belief of the rhinoceros horn's ability to prolong and protect life, it is not surprising that the medium's supposed properties would be reinforced through iconography

Sotheby's. Fine Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art. 23 Mar 11. New York www.sothebys.com