The art of the snuff bottle has its origins in the introduction of tobacco snuff to the Imperial Court of the Manchus (Qing Dynasty 1642-1911). Powdered snuff was regarded as having medicinal qualities and with Court patronage, rapidly grew in popularity. Ornate snuff bottles were created by Chinese craftsmen from a bewildering array of materials: porcelain, enamel, metal, wood, jadeite, ivory and glass, using techniques only known in China at the time. Snuff boxes are elaborately decorated, invariably miniature and admired for their tactile qualities. The surviving examples are highly prized by collectors and students of the history of arts and crafts in China. This new book showcases in depth the style, history and significance of rare bottles from the 17th Century until the end of Imperial China and beyond. The author provides fresh insights into the sumptuous world of a fascinating art form deservedly attracting increased interest worldwide.