Antique Chinese Peking Glass Snuff Bottle with Carved ‘Cicada’

Dimensions: 2-1/2”l x 7/8”w x 6/8”thick

Offered is a rare find an antique Chinese Peking Glass Snuff Bottle cleverly carved to depict a Cicada. Very unique use of the variations of butterscotch and orange coloration with n naturally appearing dark spots in the glass giving a three-dimensional depth to the piece. Also since the glass is translucent the interior portions of the body. The entire piece is finely incised, with the underneath side detailing the thorax and the abdomen carved with notched ridges. It is finely molded with a carapace with folded and detailed wings on each side.  A naturally formed mouth provides the opening that holds the original stopper/spoon for extracting the powdered tobacco or snuff. The brass cap of the stopper is matched perfectly in a color that has been pulled from the underneath side of the body. And finally, the Cidada has realistic, bulging eyes. The piece is a perfect art piece and comes with its original Chinese rosewood stand which is perfectly scaled and hand-carved to beautifully display the bottle as a piece of art. Most likely made to accompany the snuff bottle on a scholar's desk and appreciated when not in one's pocket. An excellent piece to complete a diverse collection!

Condition: Both the Peking Glass bottle and original rosewood stand are in excellent condition with no visible damage, chips, or cracks. This small snuff bottle was designed to fit into the palm and easily carried on one’s person.

NOTE: Smoking tobacco was illegal during the Qing dynasty (1644-1911), but the use of snuff was allowed because the Chinese considered snuff to be used for medical purposes.