清十八 / 十九世紀 粉紅碧璽歳寒三友鼻煙壺

知柔齋收藏，香港
Hugh Moss (HK) Ltd

The overall condition is extremely good. The stone has some natural icy flaws.
"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."

This is of unusually deep and even colour, and of relatively flawless material, for an early tourmaline bottle. It also has one of the loveliest and most imaginative of all original stoppers on any precious stone snuff bottle, with its lovely use of the two-colour material so typical of the mid Qing period. The subject is the Three Friends of Winter, the pine, prunus and bamboo, all of which flourish in the snow, symbolising good friendship that will prevail despite hard times.