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May 292 min read

Small bottles, great treasures : Chinese snuffboxes

Updated: Jun 3

The history of Chinese snuffboxes is closely linked to that of the great dynasties that have shaped the country. Although their official appearance dates back to the 17th century under the Qing dynasty, evidence suggests that small containers for medicinal powders existed well before that time.

Sandwiched pink glass snuffbox, China, 19th century, appraised by Gauchet Art Asiatique for R&C, sold for €1,800

It was during the Ming dynasty (1368-1644) that tobacco, introduced by the Portuguese, began to spread in China. Its use, initially for medicinal purposes, quickly evolved into recreational use, particularly among the elite. Snuffboxes, initially simple and functional, became veritable objets d'art, reflecting the refinement and social status of their owners.


The apogee of Chinese snuffbox manufacture was undoubtedly reached during the Qing dynasty (1644-1912). This period was marked by an explosion of creativity and an improvement in craft techniques. The Qing emperors, who were great snuff enthusiasts, actively encouraged and supported the production of these precious objects.



Yellow-glazed porcelain snuffbox (Jingdezhen), China, 19th century, at the MET in New York


The imperial workshops are teeming with talented craftsmen who compete in ingenuity to create ever more refined and original snuffboxes. The variety of materials used is staggering: jade, porcelain, glass, lacquer, metal, bone, ivory... Each material is enhanced by meticulous decorative techniques such as sculpting, painting, engraving, inlaying and enamelling.


They are veritable miniature works of art, each telling a story and conveying symbols rich in meaning. The motifs and decorative themes are drawn from mythology, religion, literature and nature. Dragons and phoenixes stand alongside flowers and landscapes, while scenes from everyday life immortalise the customs and habits of the period.

Carved jade snuffbox, China, 18th-19th century, appraised by Gauchet Art Asiatique for Millon, sold for €3,000

In addition to their primary function and their role in social rituals, Chinese snuffboxes also played an important role in diplomatic relations and cultural exchanges between China and foreign countries. They were often presented as gifts to foreign ambassadors and dignitaries, symbolising friendship and respect between nations. In this way, they helped to spread Chinese culture and know-how throughout the world. They were admired for their beauty and refinement, arousing the interest and fascination of foreign populations.


Chinese snuffboxes are much more than just collectors' items. They represent a precious heritage that allows us to travel through time and discover the richness of Chinese culture. Their timeless beauty and fine craftsmanship continue to amaze art lovers and arouse the admiration of connoisseurs.


Carved amber snuffbox, China, 19th century, appraised by Gauchet Art Asiatique for Millon, sold for € 1100

Gauchet Art Asiatique, a specialist in Asian art for over 20 years, offers a precise and reliable appraisal of your snuffboxes. Our team of experts, led by Jean Gauchet, is highly qualified to examine and analyse the unique characteristics of each piece, including its style, material, provenance and state of preservation.


Whether you are a passionate collector or simply the owner of a snuffboxe, Gauchet Art Asiatique is your trusted partner for the appraisal of your ruyi. Contact us today for a free estimate.




To find out more about Chinese snuffboxes, read the article by Barnebys (the world's largest search engine for art, design and collectables) entitled "Snuff Bottles: Still up to Snuff".


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