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 ceramic snuff bottle has a hexagonal form and is glazed with cobalt pigments in the tradition of Chinese blue-and-white porcelain. A charming scene of a robed scholar alone in a courtyard garden decorates the sides.

The original cap and spoon have been lost.