SNUFF BOTTLE #30

Snuff bottles or snuff bottles are associated with the habit of snuffing snuff, and are made of many different materials. Although tobacco was introduced to China by the Portuguese in the 19th century, it is still a very popular product in China. XVI, the custom of vacuuming did not become widespread until the end of the 16th century. XVII and the beginning of the XVIII century. The shape of the cigarette cases is derived from the bottles used for medicines, and their size does not exceed 10 cm. so that they can be held between the hands. In general, all of them are closed with a button-shaped cap made of hard stones, to which a small ivory spatula used to suck the monkfish directly was attached. This custom was restricted to male court circles and the bottles were kept in small, richly embroidered pouches hanging from the belt. Their use not only spread in court circles, but they were soon sought after by Chinese and foreign collectors fascinated by the fantasy and technical virtuosity with which they were made. The Rodríguez-Acosta Foundation has eight bottles in its collection, six glass bottles and two porcelain bottles of the Blue and White type. Two of the glass bottles have inscriptions on the inside, stating the period in which they were made (Qianlong reign) as well as the craftsman and painter who decorated them. As decorative themes, we find in this collection the landscape, the representation of popular legends, as well as objects and animals that symbolize good omens and virtues. I.C.F. / Extracted from: Isabel CERVERA FERNÁNDEZ: Fundación Rodríguez-Acosta. Asian Art Collection. Granada, 2002.