White jade snuff bottle, Ming dynasty, 17th Century

Hetian white jade snuff bottle, carved and embossed on the outside. The shape is oval, slightly flattened, stands on an oval foot, without inscriptions, and under a circular neck with a small hole in the center. The reliefs show a traditional rocky landscape with pine trees and bamboo. In very good condition for the antique, without a lid.

Pine (松樹) is a type of tree widely represented in the arts for its significance of longevity and hardiness. It is a tree that can thrive in rough places and lives for many years. Bamboo (竹) also has a broad cultural significance, considered for its tough bark, conviviality and uprightness, as well as an example of perseverance.

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

Size: 5 x 4.1 x 5.6 cm; Weight: 127 g