Chinese Snuff Bottle Hand Enamelled Dragons on Copper Spoon Top, circa 1920s

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 decorative snuff bottle has a simple ceramic form and a colorful finish of overglaze enamels atop white glaze. The bottle has an oval shape, with flattened sides and rounded edges. The shoulders are accented with a door knocker motif and the sides are painted with birds amid plum blossom...

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-dynast...

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-dynast...

In the 1920s and 1930s, Shanghai, China was swept up in the Art Deco design movement. Design, architecture, art, fashion, and furniture were all influenced by this modern movement, permeating every part of life in the bustling, vibrant city. This blue glass perfume bottle...

A Chinese bone snuff bottle and case. 1 ¾ inches wide by ¾ inches deep by 3 inches tall

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-dynast...

Tea drinking has been an integral part of Chinese culture for centuries, resulting in a wide range of social customs and material traditions. In addition to tea leaves, water, and he...

The hand painting and the mix of primary colors make this snuff jar attractive. The jar from the mid-20th century, showcase a captivating blend of artistic craftsmanship and cultural significance. The snuff bottle, with its dragon motif, reflects a classic theme deeply rooted in Chinese symbolism. Dragons traditionally symbolize power, strength, and good fortune. The blue and white color scheme, characteristic of traditional Chinese porcelain, adds to the aesthetic appeal. The mid-20th-century timeframe indicates a continuation of classical artistic traditions during a dynamic period in Chinese history. The jar, likely sharing similar blue and white aesthetics, could serve various purposes within Chinese culture, from storage to decorative use. The mid-20th-century context suggests a connection to the evolving socio-cultural landscape of that time. While specific details about the artisans remain unknown, the 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-dynast...

A fabulous vintage 1920s Asian vase. A chic green and yellow form with a dragon motif. Stamped on the bottom. Acquired from a Palm Beach estate.