This unique vintage Chinese snuff bottle is carved out of bone in exacting detail. The snuff bottle is a Chinese fish -carp. The carving goes all around the fish and shows the larger fish on one side with a smaller fish on top of the larger fish on the other side. It comes with the original stopper. The fish is 2” long by 1 1/2” wide and is perfect condition. He will get lots of attention in your display area.

In China the carp is considered the most favored of all fish. It symbolizes wealth, abundance, happiness and fertility. In China the carp is symbolic of determination and perseverance. It is believed that the carp can ascend the rapids and waterfalls of the wild Yellow River will eventually become a dragon. The carp also symbolizes success in school or study, as well as business.

Snuff bottles were originally used during the Qing Dynasty to carry powder tobacco as smoking was illegal during that time. Snuff was considered a medicine and a treatment for all kinds of ailments including colds, stomach aches and headaches. Once smoking was legal the prized possessions became collector’s items