Lot 6026, A transparent green glass snuff bottle, 1750-1820. Estimate US$ 2,000 - 3,000 (€1,800 - 2,700). Photo: Bonhams.

The heavy, tapering form bottle supported on a neatly finished oval foot ring, the narrow sides carved with two raised chilong, the glass of an attractive lime-green color. 2 1/2in (6.4cm) high

Property from the Marcia J. Howard Collection

Notes: This bottle belongs to a distinguished group of glass bottles from the 18th century which appears to have been continuously made through the early 19th century. They are often seen in green color, sometimes in blue, red, and amethyst purple. The characteristic features of the group include the carved 'chi' dragons on the narrow sides and their heavier weight, which suggests that these bottles were likely carved from solid glass blocks rather than being blown. 

For a similar example in purple color and a further discussion on this group of bottles, see Moss, Graham, Tsang, A Treasury of Chinese Snff Bottles, Vol.5, Glass, no. 836. Another two similar glass bottles, one in green, the other of blue color, from the Paul Braga Collection, sold in our Hong Kong rooms, 24 November 2012, sale 20524, lots 19 and 63.

Bonhams. CHINESE SNUFF BOTTLES FROM TWO PRIVATE AMERICAN COLLECTIONS, 10:00 EDT - NEW YORK