Description
Chinese hand-carved crystal snuff bottle sculpted in the form of a Buddha’s Hand citron (Fo Shou), a traditional symbol of longevity, happiness, and good fortune in Chinese culture. The bottle is carved from clear crystal, skillfully worked to capture the natural segmented, finger-like form of the fruit, creating a dynamic interplay of light, contour, and translucency.
The crystal body exhibits excellent clarity, allowing light to move freely through the carving and accentuating the fluid, organic modeling of the surface. The sculptural treatment emphasizes the citron’s distinctive lobed structure, a motif long favored in Chinese decorative arts for its auspicious associations and elegant visual rhythm.
The bottle is fitted with a coral stopper, providing a vivid chromatic contrast to the cool, luminous crystal. This pairing of materials reflects a classic aesthetic preference in Chinese snuff bottle design, where tactile richness and visual balance were central considerations.
Buddha’s Hand citron imagery carries deep symbolic meaning, traditionally associated with blessings, prosperity, and the wish for a long and fortunate life. The combination of refined carving, auspicious subject matter, and harmonious materials makes this a highly appealing example of Chinese lapidary craftsmanship.
Age: 19th Century
Dimensions: 2 1/2″ high x 1 1/4″ wide