Black Stone 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 late 19th-century snuff bottle is made of a dense black stone carved to a teardrop form with mock rings topped by lion masks. Elevated by a petite wooden stand, the well-proportioned bottle is finished with an orange carnelian stopper and fitted with an elongated silver alloy snuff spoon.