A CARVED SUZHOU AGATE SNUFF BOTTLE QING DYNASTY, 1780-1860

of ovoid form resting on a low oval foot, carved in relief as a continuous rocky landscape scene, the dark brown inclusions cleverly utilized to depict children, an elderly man and animals in various activities, the billowing clouds enclosing the scene from above, a five-character relief inscription in dark inclusion, tourmaline stopper with vinyl collar

The overall condition of the piece is good.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The present snuff bottle was carved in a style unique to the workshop associated with Zhiting, a well-known jade carver from Suzhou. One of the distinguishing characteristics of the snuff bottle created by the Zhiting Workshop are the masterful use of colour and the confidence in execution with planes of considerable depth as the serrated rock and pine tree in the present lot.  For a discussion of the School of Zhiting in Suzhou, see Moss, Graham, Tsang, A Treasury of Chinese Snuff Bottles, No. 2, Quartz, Hong Kong, 1998, nos. 366-378.