Yellow Snuff Bottle with Butterflies, late 20th century
China
Glass and enamel; 2 3/4 × 2 1/…

Images(3)

Snuff Bottle

ClassificationsTools and Equipment-smoking or snuffing equipment-containers

Datelate 20th Century

Made AtChina, Asia

MediumGlass and enamel

Dimensions2 3/4 × 2 1/4 × 1 in. (7 × 5.7 × 2.5 cm)

Credit LineGift of Dr. Murray and Brett Via

Object number97.11.46

DescriptionSnuff bottles were introduced to China by Jesuit Missionaries during the early Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). The solution inside is made by grinding dried tobacco leaves into a fine powder and mixing it with spices, herbs and aromatics. When inhaled through the nose it gives the user a nicotine rush. Though modern science suggests that long term use of snuff can lead to chronic health issues, during the Qing dynasty it was used medically to cure headaches, stomach ailments, coughing and other maladies.

The Kangxi Emperor (r. 1661–1722) is credited with the development of handheld snuff bottles around the end of the 17th century. These small, airtight containers solved the issue of snuff being ruined by China’s high humidity. The bottles took many forms and could be made from glass, various minerals, metals, porcelain, and internally painted glass.

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