Lot 6001. A polychrome enameled porcelain snuff bottle, Imperial, Jingdezhen kilns, Daoguang mark and of the period, 1821-1850. Estimate US$ 3,000 - 5,000 (€2,700 - 4,600). Photo: Bonhams.

Of compressed globular form with a cylindrical neck, rounded lip, finely painted on one side with two frolicking Pekinese, the verso depicting a pair of doves by graceful bamboo; the slightly recessed foot neatly inscribed with the four-character mark. 2 1/4in (5.7cm) high

Provenance: Robert Hall, 12th November 1985

Notes: The theme of paired Pekinese dogs and doves suggests conjugal bliss and was a subject very much favoured by the Daoguang emperor. Similar motifs are seen on the contemporary porcelains of the period and snuff bottles made from other materials as well. 

Compare an enameled and slip-decorated Yixing snuff bottle from the Collection of Barbara and Marvin Dicker, sold in our New York rooms, 16 March 2015, sale 22949, lot 1028.

Bonhams. CHINESE SNUFF BOTTLES FROM TWO PRIVATE AMERICAN COLLECTIONS, NEW YORK