A Ruby-Red Overlay White Glass ‘Mallow Flower’ Snuff Bottle Qing Dynasty, 18th Century

Mr and Mrs Kenneth Hark.
Robert Hall, London, 1991.

Moss et al., 1996-2009, vol. 5, no. 889.

There is a tiny chip on the base of the foot. Otherwise, it 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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Restrained though it may be by virtue of its understated, formalized design, this unique and flawless cameo-overlay is as beautifully carved as any glass bottle in the collection. It may be from an early period, before the mallow-flower motif became standardized. The foot is unusual in being carved from the ground rather than the overlay colour. A similar slightly misty or milky ground suffused with air bubbles was seen also in Sale 6, lot 140, which is likely to be from the first half of the Qianlong reign. This example probably dates from the same time, although a Yongzheng date is not out of the question. The absence of crizzling on either the almost colourless glass, which was very susceptible to it, or the red, which also suffered in many cases, argues against proposing earlier dates.