Late Qing Ivory figural snuff bottle

DUE TO INTERNATIONAL LAWS PROHIBITING THE EXPORT/IMPORT OF IVORY, WE WILL ONLY SHIP THIS ITEM TO A DOMESTIC AUSTRALIAN ADDRESS. 

This late Qing ivory figural snuff bottle (or in Chinese 鼻烟壶) is a fascinating snapshot of social history circa 1880-1900.
This particular snuff bottle charmingly depicts an empress of that era; with finely drawn eyebrows and an intriguing smile, she is richly dressed in intricately carved and coloured robes. Her graceful hands hold symbols of her station and learning; a fan and pipa, a classical Chinese stringed instrument. She is fully carved; even the under soles of her shoes are meticulously depicted, not to mention her hair and headdress. She would quite possibly have been produced for export as a charming novelty for the European market, appealing to both Eastern and Western tastes.
Snuff and the art of taking it was perhaps the most popular form of tobacciana in both European and Chinese imperial courts during the 17th to 19th centuries. As the social rituals surrounding snuff became increasingly stratified, snuff bottles became increasingly miniaturised works of art to denote status.
Chinese snuff bottles were also distinctive from their European counterparts, with tiny mouths and stoppers to counter the steamy humidity of Asia and prevent damage to the dry goods within. Overall both a beautiful and fascinating piece sure to appeal to collectors of ivory as well as tobacciana.
In very good antique condition with wear commensurate with age and use. Some wear to paint but overall the pattern is intact.
Price is as marked at $900AUD.