Celestial Garden: A Hand-Carved Snuff Bottle

Museum Collection _ Not For Sale

This hand-carved snuff bottle is a stunning work of art with intricate details that showcase the beauty of nature. The delicate carvings of cherry blossoms and bamboo stalks encircle the bottle, creating a serene and tranquil forest scene. The swallow bird perched on a branch, along with the clouds and mountains, evoke the feeling of being in a celestial space. The addition of two Qilin heads with rings in their mouths on each side of the bottle add a touch of mystique and wonder.

During the Qing Dynasty, snuff bottles were a popular and fashionable accessory among the upper classes. They were used to hold powdered tobacco, which was inhaled through the nose as a form of medicine or for pleasure. The bottles were often made of precious materials, such as amber, and were adorned with intricate carvings or paintings. They were carried on the person and used as a means of displaying wealth and status. 

Amber is used to cure headaches, heart problems and arthritis. It also treats respiratory based allergies, neck related diseases, thyroid problems and even throat cancers.It is also used as protective amulet against negative magic.

Origin - China, 19th century

Measurement - height 3" x width 2 1/2"

Material - Amber

Gemstone and metaphysical information reflects traditional beliefs and is not medical advice.