SNUFF BOTTLE #32

The snuff bottles or “tabaqueras” are associated with the habit of sniffing the snuff, being manufactured in many different materials. Although snuff was introduced in China by the Portuguese in the 16th century, the habit of snuffing did not spread until the end of the 17th century and the beginning of the 18th century. The shape of the cigarette cases derives from the bottles used for medicines, being their size no larger than 10 cm. to be able to hold them between the hands. In general all of them are closed with a button-shaped stopper made of hard stones, to which was attached a small ivory spatula used to suck the anglerfish directly. 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 Rodriguez-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, which state the period in which they were made (reign of Qianlong) and 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.Bibliography: BLOCH, G. M.: “Favoutite Snuff Bottles” in Arts of Asia. Hong Kong, September-October, 1990 / GROW, D.C.: “Blue and White Snuff Bottles”, in Arts of Asia, 1990 / LI, R.: Chinese Snuff Bottle Themes. Popular Stories and Fables. Hong Kong, 1983.