Snuff Bottle
Unknown Artist
Medium
Porcelain
Dimensions
H. 3 5/16 in. (8.4 cm)
Classification
Snuff Bottles
Culture & Period
China · Qing dynasty (1644–1911), Qianlong period (1736–95)
Department
Asian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Bequest of Benjamin Altman, 1913
Accession Number
14.40.521a, b
Art Historical Context
This delicate porcelain snuff bottle, hailing from China's Qing dynasty during the Qianlong period (6–95), exemplifies refined artistry of imperial workshops. Standing just 3 5/16 inches (8.4 cm) tall, it was designed as a portable luxury item for carrying finely ground tobacco snuff—a habit introduced by European traders in 17th century that captivated the Chinese elite. Snuff bottles like this one became coveted status symbols among scholars, officials, and emperors, blending functionality with exquisite craftsmanship. Qianlong-era porcelain from Jingdezhen kilns achieved unparalleled techn...