Antique Chinese snuff bottle carved from a single piece of moss agate with an orange shell-like topper. Stunning "floating" patterns which really speak to the moss-like patterns this type of agate is named after.
Since antiquity moss agate has been highly prized in different cultures, fashioned in to jewellery and status symbols by Victorians. In China a single large agate of this size would have been carefully kept and carved to display its unique patterns. The shape and colouration indicate that this is likely 19th century, with a style that was popular since the earlier reign of Emperor Qianlong. Absolutely exceptional piece with amazing shape, colouration and size.
Price marked at AUD$2200.
Agate weight of 101.7g, total weight 109.3 grams. Height of 8cm, width of 6.2cm.
