A SILHOUETTE AGATE SNUFF BOTTLE

very well hollowed, of rounded square form sloping to a cylindrical neck, resting on a flared carved oval foot, the dark brown inclusions cut and polished on one face to depict two small birds with pronounced eyes, one shoulder with a dark-brown inclusion perhaps representative of a cloud, the reverse uncarved, the stone of a pale mushroom tone

In good condition overal, with minor nicks on the foot and some polished edges.
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.

The two confronting birds, set against an unadorned background, lends the bottle a sense of liveliness and vitality. For examples of agate bottles featuring two birds, see Hugh Moss, Chinese Snuff Bottles of the Silica or Quartz Group, London, 1971, pp. 36, figs. 80, 82.