chine Sculpted translucent violet glass, imitation amethyst Rare snuffbox in violet glass, carved, “amethyst imitation,” with a landscape with inscriptions - 6.6 cm






Studied Asian art and art market management; researched art in Taipei; worked in auctions.
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A Qing-dynasty snuff bottle, dating from the 18th to early 19th century, made of carved translucent violet glass imitating amethyst and decorated with a literati landscape.
Description from the seller
Beautiful and rare Chinese snuff bottle in translucent violet glass, sculpted, made during the Qing dynasty, in the 18th century or early 19th century.
The glass, a deep purple tone reminiscent of amethyst, has been entirely carved in relief to create a continuous, particularly decorative landscape. One can discern pavilions nestled among rocks, gnarled trees, lush vegetation, stylized clouds, and a scholar with his staff walking along. The sculpture extends across the entire body and fully utilizes the transparency and depth variations of the glass.
The bottle has an flattened oval form, a small oval foot, and a short neck with a wide opening—characteristics found on ancient Qing-period snuff bottles. The material shows small bubbles and internal irregularities typical of ancient glassmaking.
The domed red-glass stopper is accompanied by its cork and its spoon.
The piece is in very good overall condition, with only minor signs of use and a few small manufacturing irregularities.
Dimensions: 6.6 × 3.5 × 2 cm
Weight: 45.6 g
Provenance: French trade, then the European art market. Acquired in 2024 from a house specializing in Asian art.
Seller's Story
Beautiful and rare Chinese snuff bottle in translucent violet glass, sculpted, made during the Qing dynasty, in the 18th century or early 19th century.
The glass, a deep purple tone reminiscent of amethyst, has been entirely carved in relief to create a continuous, particularly decorative landscape. One can discern pavilions nestled among rocks, gnarled trees, lush vegetation, stylized clouds, and a scholar with his staff walking along. The sculpture extends across the entire body and fully utilizes the transparency and depth variations of the glass.
The bottle has an flattened oval form, a small oval foot, and a short neck with a wide opening—characteristics found on ancient Qing-period snuff bottles. The material shows small bubbles and internal irregularities typical of ancient glassmaking.
The domed red-glass stopper is accompanied by its cork and its spoon.
The piece is in very good overall condition, with only minor signs of use and a few small manufacturing irregularities.
Dimensions: 6.6 × 3.5 × 2 cm
Weight: 45.6 g
Provenance: French trade, then the European art market. Acquired in 2024 from a house specializing in Asian art.
