Sandbanks Antiques has dated this Chinese Rock Crystal Snuff Bottle to the 19th Century.
Circa 1850 - 1880
An exceptional and substantial example of late Qing Dynasty (19th Century) lapidary art.
The vessel is encased in an intricate, partially detached "Linglong" (pierced openwork) network of flowering Prunus (Plum Blossom) branches. The Prunus is a revered Chinese symbol of resilience and purity, rendered here with superb hand-incised detailing on the blossoms and gnarled branches.
The Stopper & Function
This bottle features its original matching solid rock crystal stopper, precision-ground to the neck for an airtight, "no-wobble" fit.
Note on the Stopper: This is a "Cabinet" style bottle, designed specifically for visual appreciation and display on a scholar's desk. As is characteristic of high-relief "linglong" carvings, the stopper is a solid crystal plug with no spoon. This design was intentional to allow the viewer to see through the clear vessel without the visual distraction of a bone or metal spoon, and to protect the fragile external branch-work from the wear of daily use.
Condition Report
Chipping: Consistent with a genuine 19th-century artifact, there is minor chipping and "flea bites" to the outermost delicate edges of the raised floral branches and base terminals.
Internal Characteristics: The natural crystal contains internal "floss" (crystalline stress veiling) and cloudy inclusions. These are natural birthmarks of the stone and confirm its mineral origin.
Structural Note: There is a visible, stable internal stress fracture near the neck. It is a natural characteristic of the stone and does not affect the structural integrity of the bottle.
Surface: A soft, time-aged patina with light surface wear consistent with over 150 years of handling.
Approximate Dimensions
Height: 11 cm (Substantial Cabinet Size)
Width: 7 cm
Depth: 4 cm
This is a sophisticated "Scholar’s Object" intended for high-level display. The complexity of the pierced carving and the rarity of the matching, precision-fit solid stopper make this a standout piece for any serious collection of Chinese lapidary art.
Similar Snuff Bottle with spoon is in the Iowa State University ;-https://emuseum.its.iastate.edu/objects/68/snuff-bottle
Another similar example without lid is in the Asian Art Museum:-
https://searchcollection.asianart.org/objects/6962/snuff-bottle
Sandbanks Antiques has dated this Chinese Rock Crystal Snuff Bottle to the 19th Century.
Specialising in antique silver, gold boxes, gold coins and objects de vertu. Rare fine-quality imperial chinese porcelain, jades, cloisonné
You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Sandbanks Antiques Profile Page
Antique 19th C. Chinese Rock Crystal Snuff Bottle – Master-Carved "Linglong" Openwork Prunus – 11cm Cabinet Piece
