Superb Chinese-Australian Opal Snuff Bottle w/ Lotus

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Fine Antiquities, Asian, Ethno, Fine Art

By Artemis Fine Arts

May 1, 2025

Set Reminder 2025-05-01 10:00:00 2025-05-01 10:00:00 America/New_York Bidsquare Bidsquare : Fine Antiquities, Asian, Ethno, Fine Art https://www.bidsquare.com/auctions/artemis-gallery/fine-antiquities-asian-ethno-fine-art-19334
Showcasing an extraordinary array of artifacts and art, including Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Etruscan, Near Eastern, Asian, Pre-Columbian, Native American, Tribal, Oceanic, Spanish Colonial treasures, fossils, fine and visual arts, and more! All ancient items are ethically sourced and legally available for sale. Enjoy the ease of in-house shipping for a seamless experience! Artemis Fine Arts info@artemisgallery.com

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• Lot Description
  Australia / China, ca. early to mid-20th century CE. A stunning snuff bottle carved from precious opal, its rainbow-hued surface shimmering with brilliant flashes of green, pink, and hints of blue. Weighing a heafty 241.5 carats, the body is intricately carved with a detailed motif of fish and lotus - symbols of abundance and purity - while the lid is crowned with a Fu Lion finial, adding a protective and auspicious touch. Before the rise of commercial opal mining in Australia in the late 19th century, opal was a rare and coveted gem, often reserved for the wealthy elite. As Chinese workers settled in Australia during this period, many became highly skilled in cutting and trading opals, their craftsmanship nearly unrivaled. Snuff bottles like this served not only to hold powdered tobacco - used medicinally - but were also cherished as miniature works of art, showcasing both material opulence and artistic finesse. Size: 1.6" W x 3" H (4.1 cm x 7.6 cm); weight: 48.3 grams
  
  Provenance: Los Angeles, California, USA collection
  
  All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
  
  A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.
  
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  #193594

  Condition

  The lid and upper edge of the bottle have some adhesive residue from tape, but easily rubs off. Choice, intact and excellent. Gorgeous coloration.
• Shipping Info

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