Snuff bottle with squirrels
This exquisite work of carved lacquer has representations of a popular animal: the squirrel. This small rodent is prized not only for its preciousness but also for being a highly fertile animal. Depicted playing among vines with bunches of grapes, another symbol of multiple offspring, squirrels express wishes for a large family.
Artwork Details
- 清晚期 剔彩松鼠紋鼻煙壺
- Title: Snuff bottle with squirrels
- Period: Qing dynasty (1644–1911)
- Date: 19th century
- Culture: China
- Medium: Carved polychrome lacquer
- Dimensions: H. 2 1/8 in. (5.4 cm)
- Classification: Snuff Bottles
- Credit Line: Bequest of Edmund C. Converse, 1921
- Object Number: 21.175.335a, b
- Curatorial Department: Asian Art
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