"Lotus Seed" agate snuff bottle, Qing dynasty, Qianlong

A snuff bottle carved from a single piece of agate and, on the other side, a lid. The body is in the shape of a lotus seed and the different tones of the agate have been chosen to represent two golden butterflies perched on it. The transparency and quality of the carving are exceptional, and it is in very good condition. 

Heilongjiang agate is found in the northwest of the province. This carbon dioxide mineral is of gem grade and is a variant of chalcedony. Agate from this region has beautiful and warm colours, rich colours and a hard texture, very useful for carved crafts. This product figured as a tribute in the Qing dynasty. 

Lotus seeds have many meanings depending on their context: beauty, fullness, health, purity... It can also be identified with two personal traits: self-perfection and spiritual cultivation. In the secular sphere, because of its beautiful shape, it is used in traditional Chinese weddings as a gift and good wishes. Secondly, they have a high nutritional value, which means health and longevity. Therefore, on important occasions such as sacrifices, birthdays and weddings, lotus seeds are often used to make cakes or desserts. In Buddhism, they acquire great importance for their attributes of purity, nobility and enlightenment. In Buddhist thought, the lotus flower grows in mud, but does not stain and rejects dirt from the body, to radiate a beautiful light. The lotus flower is interpreted as Buddha's victory and peace, while the seed represents purity of mind.

Provenance: Important collection of Tommy Lam, Hong Kong, since 1980.

Height: 5.9 cm; Weight: 47 g