Blue and White Snuff Bottle

A mixture of finely powdered tobacco, herbs, and spices, snuff was introduced to China in the 17th century by Western diplomats. Initially reserved for ranking members of Qing-dynasty society, the practice provided an opportunity to display one's refined aesthetic through collectible snuff bottles.

This petite snuff bottle is glazed with cobalt pigments in the tradition of Chinese blue-and-white porcelain. The bottle has a rectangular form with a constrained neck and a wide, square base. A quiet scene of two robed scholars in a courtyard setting wraps around the sides. The original cap and spoon have been lost.