The couple found a bowl in the garage, which turned out to be an expensive antique (5 photos + 1 video)
A couple from the UK decided to show experts a bowl they found in their garage. It turned out to be an ancient Chinese object from the 17th century. Its cost at auction can be 5 thousand dollars. 
A couple from the Cotswold region of Great Britain found an unusual bowl in their garage and decided to show it to an antiques expert. The couple were shocked to learn that the bowl turned out to be an ancient Chinese treasure from the Qing Dynasty. It is made from rhinoceros horn, and was used for libations (sacrificing wine to the gods as a sacrificial ritual). The cup is believed to have been in use around 350 years ago, and in addition to being used for religious purposes, it may have had aphrodisiac properties. 
According to expert estimates, the bowl dates back to the late 17th or early 18th century. It will soon be auctioned by Hansons Auctioneers, where it will fetch between £3,000 and £5,000. Charles Hanson, owner of Hansons and an antiques expert, said the discovery was made by accident:
“I regularly visit clients’ homes to evaluate antiques for possible auction. I had already finished the inspection and was sitting in the car, getting ready to leave, when the clients decided to show me one more thing. I had an incredible find in my hands - a rare Chinese object from the late 17th century. - the beginning of the 18th century. I immediately recognized it as a libation bowl. It was skillfully carved from rhinoceros horn and decorated with intricate details,” the expert said. 
Similar bowls were used in important ceremonies in Chinese scholarly circles. They symbolized victory and held a special place in Chinese culture. In addition, bowls were considered magical objects: the horn changed color to warn the drinker about the presence of poison in the drink. 
