A cameo agate bottle, 19th-early 20th century. Photo Christie's Image Ltd 2013

Of high-shouldered, tapering form, the bottle is carved through the opaque, taupe skin with four birds perched in or flying above a gnarled prunus tree. The reverse is cleverly carved with another bird rendered from a dark-brown inclusion in the semi-transparent creamy-white stone. 2 5/8 in. (6.7 cm.) high, rose quartz stopper - Estimate USD 1,500.00 - 2,500.00

Christie's. Chinese Works of Art Online Only: Snuff Bottles & Books - www.christies.com