A SILHOUETTE AGATE SNUFF BOTTLE

well hollowed, of small square form with rounded corners, the cylindrical neck culminating in a slightly concave mouth, supported on a neatly carved oval foot, the brown inclusions on one face cut and polished to depict the 'Hehe Erxian', one holding a lotus flower, the other bearing a basket of escaping bats, next to a small double-gourd, suffused with caramel-brown inclusions running from the mouth down to one side, reminiscent of a cloud

Y. F. Yang.

In good condition with a small area of tiny nicks on the edge of the mouth.
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.

A similar agate bottle depicting the 'Hehe Erxian' is in The Collection of Denis Low and illustrated in Robert Kleiner, Treasures from the Sanctum of Enlightened Respect, Hong Kong, 1999, p. 209, no. 180. They appear to have been created by the same hand, as the depiction of the boys is almost identical.

The 'Hehe Erxian' are twins who represent harmonious matrimony. As shown on the present bottle, they typically hold a lotus (hehua) and a box (hezi). The five bats flying out of the box represent wufu, or the 'Five Blessings' of longevity, wealth, health, love of virtue and a natural death.