"Buceros Vigil" from China, commonly known as Helmeted Hornbill ivory, it features hand-carved figures making music and dancing. Hornbill ivory is very rare and was extremley popular in China and the East Indies. The ivory, also known as Ho-ting, is a hard substance which is contained above the beak of the helmeted Hornbill. Gradually as the bird grows older it develops a helmet on the top of the skull. The ivory is covered with a gleaming red coating. Hornbill ivory first appeared in Chinese records during the Ming Dynasty. The sides are carved and gilt with Chinese characters, possibly signed by the artist. Complete with wood stand, skull measures apprx 4-3/4" x 8-3/4" x 3-1/4".
400/600 Sold $1,069.50
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