China – Qing Dynasty Translucent agate / chalcedony...

Elegant Chinese agate snuff bottle in translucent agate, datable from the late 18th century to the first half of the 19th century, during the Qing dynasty. The bottle presents a flattened, highly architectural shape, reminiscent of a shield, with angular shoulders converging to a short, slightly flared neck. The stone, in a milky white to very pale gray tint, has a beautiful translucency and discreet natural variations that animate the surface. The two faces are framed by a fine incised geometric pattern, very restrained, which emphasizes the bottle’s construction without breaking the natural elegance of the agate. This type of treatment, based more on the quality of the stone, the purity of the lines, and the care in polishing than on a figurative décor, perfectly matches the taste of hardstone snuff bottles from the Qing period. The stopper, made of orange carnelian and mounted on metal, creates a particularly harmonious contrast with the light hue of the body. The bottle is in generally good condition, with slight signs of wear and a few minor irregularities compatible with its age. The stem/spoon of the stopper is missing. A very balanced and refined piece, interesting as much for the quality of its agate as for its unusual form and its discreet geometric décor. Dimensions: 6 × 3.8 × 1.7 cm Weight: 39.3 g China, Qing dynasty, circa 1780–1850. video link: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/t8ut90j3uqsgqoxgd6jfo/AByuVl6dAYtB7wNPkHjewBE?rlkey=15ltxyrt22y3el75is11t93wj&dl=0

Estimate:£929.29

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