Enameled Copper Lotus and Duck Snuff Bottle

Snuff, a mixture of powdered tobacco, herbs, and spices, was introduced to China by Western diplomats in the 17th century. The opportunity for ranking members of Chinese society to customize their snuff bottles made them favorite collectibles. While many snuff bottles are known for their carvings and materials direct from nature, this enameled example is of a scene with a duck among lotuses. Intertwined symbols of faithful matrimony and purity, the duck and lotus were most likely selected by one member of a committed couple as a gift to their partner.