A RED OVERLAY 'SNOWFLAKE' GROUND GLASS SNUFF BOTTLE

of flattened rounded form, overlaid in ruby-red on a dense 'snowflake' ground, well carved on each face with a pair of geese on a lily pond, one swimming peacefully, the other with one bird displaying its wings to its mate

Christie's New York, 3rd June 1993, lot 334.

There is a small chip to the upper edge of the mouth, beside the stopper opening. There is a ribbon-like fracture or inclusion extending down from this chip through the neck and into the shoulder. It may be a bruise or a fault in the making or it could have occured later due to an impact.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

There is some debate as to whether the birds represented depict geese, or rather ducks with ornithologically incorrect long necks. In either case pairs of such birds, which mate for life, are a frequently found symbol in Chinese art, representing fidelity and marital bliss.

A very similarly carved red overlay on yellow glass bottle was sold at Millon et Jutheau, Nouveau Drouot, Paris, 2nd July 1984, lot 50.