Snuff Bottles Appraisal

Pair of Cloisonné Enamel Snuff Bottles with Landscape and Animal Motifs

This is a pair of antique cloisonné enamel snuff bottles, each distinctive yet clearly part of a set. They are characterized by their rounded, flattened ovoid bodies and domed caps, typical for snuff bottles. The primary material appears to be brass or bronze, meticulously decorated with cloisonné enamelwork. The color palette is rich and varied, predominantly featuring shades of green, blue, yellow, and brown, with accents of red and white. Each bottle showcases an intricate landscape scene on its main body, framed by a patterned border near the neck and base. One bottle depicts a crane-like bird amidst foliage and water, while the other features a deer-like animal grazing in a mountainous landscape. The background enamel on both bottles is a light, perhaps sky-blue or faded green, speckled with tiny darker dots, indicating a speckled or sanded ground technique often seen in older cloisonné. The enamel cells are defined by thin metal wires, which show some oxidation and patination consistent with age. There are visible signs of wear and tear, including minor surface abrasions, small losses to the enamel in places, and a general dulling of the original luster due to extensive handling and environmental exposure over time. The metal fittings, particularly the caps, exhibit significant patination and some verdigris, suggesting an aged copper-based alloy. The craftsmanship appears to be of good quality, with fine details discernible in the wirework, suggesting a skilled artisan. Based on the style and discernible techniques, these bottles likely date from the late 19th to early 20th century, probably from China, a period well-known for its elaborate cloisonné production. The naturalistic depictions and traditional enamel techniques point to a classic aesthetic. Unique aspects include the pairing and the slight variations in design, typical of handmade sets.