An Exceptional and Rare Renaissance Silver Gilt Mounted Rhinoceros Horn Cup
An Exceptional and Rare Renaissance Silver Gilt Mounted Rhinoceros Horn Cup
Date 1580 - 1620
Epoque Late 16th Century to Early 17th Century
Origine Germany, China
Medium Rhinoceros Horn, Silver gilt
Rhinoceros horn, silver, gilt
German / China
Late 16th Century to Early 17th Century / 1580 - 1620
Size: 15cm high - 6 ins high (to tip of figure)
Provenance:
Ex Private collection
cf: old collectors number: SIL/2046A/A to underside
Date: 1580 - 1620
Epoque: Late 16th Century to Early 17th Century
Origine: Germany, China
Medium: Rhinoceros Horn, Silver gilt
Provenance: Ex Private collection
Literature: The Chinese rhinoceros horn libation cup was an early exotic and luxurious import to the Western world, particularly Europe. It was believed to possess both high value and protective properties, making it a sought-after item. Consequently, they found their way into Royal Courts across Europe, where skilled silver and goldsmiths competed to embellish them with their individual ‘fantasies’. For instance, the artisan crafted a finely detailed silver-gilt support, enhancing the cup’s aesthetic appeal. The cup was then placed in the Court’s ‘kunstkammer’, a collection of artistic treasures, where it was admired and appreciated for its artistic significance. However, it was also occasionally used for drinking, as the rhinoceros horn rendered any ‘poisonous’ liquid safe for the Princely patron to consume !
Finch & Co
Antiquities, ethnographica, natural history, sculpture and works of art
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