Carved Cinnabar Snuff Bottle

This exquisite item is a miniature snuff bottle, skillfully crafted from carved cinnabar lacquer. Its primary color is a rich, deep red, consistent with traditional cinnabar, though some areas show discoloration and a brownish tint, likely due to age, wear, and possibly accumulated dirt or residue in the crevices of the carving. The bottle has an overall ovoid or flattened spherical body shape, tapering slightly towards a narrow neck adorned with intricate, decorative carvings. A brass or gilded metal rim encircles the mouth of the bottle, suggesting a traditional stopper mechanism, though the stopper itself is not fully visible in the provided image. The entire exterior surface is meticulously carved with a dense, relief pattern featuring what appears to be floral motifs, possibly peonies or chrysanthemums, intertwined with foliage. The carving exhibits a high level of detail, with delicate lines and varying depths that create a sense of texture and dimension. There are noticeable areas of wear and loss of the red lacquer, particularly on the raised parts of the carving and along edges, exposing a lighter, possibly wooden or composite core beneath. This wear is consistent with an item that has been frequently handled and used over time. The craftsmanship indicates a traditional Chinese origin, likely from the late Qing Dynasty or early Republic period, given the style of carving and material. The small size suggests it was designed for personal use, characteristic of snuff bottles. The brass rim shows signs of tarnishing and patina. No visible maker's marks or signatures are discernible from the images, which is common for many snuff bottles, though internal examination might reveal details. The quality of the carving, despite the wear, suggests a skilled artisan.

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