A WHITE JADE SNUFF BOTTLE

well hollowed, the pebble carved as a flattened melon, rendered in high relief, surrounded by leafy tendrils and a butterfly, the stone of an even white color with a small russet inclusion incorporated into the butterfly

Lionel Copley Collection.
Robert Hall.

Robert Hall, Chinese Snuff Bottles VI, from the Collection of Lionel Copley, Part 1, London 1993, no. 29.

Bottle is in good condition.
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 motif of a melon and butterfly forms a rebus for 'numerous descendants'. It was a popular motif among the decorative arts of the Qing dynasty, and many fine examples can be found on white jade carvings of the period. Several are illustrated in Chang Lin-sheng, Snuff Bottles in the Collection of the National Palace Museum, Taipei, 1991, pp. 158, 159, and 161, figs. 142, 143, 145, and 153.