Two smoky crystal bottles, 19th century. Photo Christie's Image Ltd 2013

The first bottle is of flattened, rounded-rectangular form on a conforming footrim. The semi-transparent stone is of even, smoky grey tone. The second is of rounded form and carved on either side with a raised circular panel and with raised oval panels on each shoulder. The semi-transparent stone of an even, warm, grey tone. 2 1/16, 2 1/8 in. (5.2, 5.4 cm.) high, jadeite stoppers (2). Estimate USD 2,000.00 - 3,000.00

Notes: Black or brown crystal, more popularly known as 'tea crystal' or 'smoky crystal', is an attractive material with a subtle, metallic, inky-brown color. As with other crystal examples and snuff bottles made from flawless, transparent material, the integrity of form and subtle visual equilibrium is achieved by the careful hollowing of the interior, combined with the masterful balance of the outer contours of the bottle.

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