Snuff Bottles China. 18th-19th Century A.D

The snuff bottles in the Tata collection are a source of great delight and are known to collectors all over the world. As the name implies, these bottles were designed to hold snuff: a preparation of powdered tobacco, enhanced with spices. Snuff was introduced to the Qing court (1644-1912 AD) by Europeans in the late 17th Century. It soon became fashionable in the Imperial court. The early bottles were simple in form. With demand and popularity, these evolved into beautiful works of art. Snuff bottles are a reflection of Chinese art in miniature form. They are especially rich in Chinese symbols because they were carried on one’s person and reflect the sentiments and style of their owners.