A RARE ancient cup which people believed could identify poison has been found in a garage.

Antiques expert Charles Hanson discovered the centuries-old rhinoceros horn libation cup during a routine home visit in the Cotswolds.

The cup was plucked out of a garage in Chipping Camden and could be worth up to £5,000.

It is believed to be a mystical Chinese treasure that could identify poison and hold aphrodisiac qualities.

Evesham Journal: The honey-caramel object is from the Kangxi Period.The honey-caramel object is from the Kangxi Period. (Image: Hansons Auctioneers)Mr Hanson, owner of Hansons Auctioneers and a familiar face on TV's Bargain Hunt and Antiques Road Trip, said it was probably used for ceremonial occasions in Chinese scholarly circles.

"I'd completed my visit and was sitting in my car, about to drive off with a wave, when the couple asked if they could show me one more thing," he said.

"They disappeared into the garage. Usually, I don't expect too much but this was very different.

"What was placed into my hands was a magical find - a rare Chinese object dating back to the late 17th or early 18th century.

"I instantly recognised it as a libation cup. It was beautifully carved from a rhinoceros horn and displayed intricate detail."

Evesham Journal: It was made during the height of rhinoceros horn carvings.It was made during the height of rhinoceros horn carvings. (Image: Hansons Auctioneers)The honey caramel object is from the Kangxi Period (1662-1723) of the Qing Dynasty and would have been crafted just after the Ming period.

The elegantly tapering body sits on a splayed base, rising to a flaring rim.

A well-carved midsection depicts archaistic motifs, while the handle features sinuous Chilong dragons, one peering over the interior rim.

Another playful dragon is carved on the opposing lip of the well-patinated cup.

In ancient Chinese mythology, rhinoceros horn was thought to contain aphrodisiac properties and to be able to detect poison.

It was believed the horn would change colours to alert a drinker to the presence of poison.

The grandfather of the couple had inherited the libation cup and it is expected to create worldwide interest when it goes to auction this month.

The libation cup will be offered in the Hansons Christmas Fine Art Auction on November 30.