An inscribed agate snuff bottle. 18th Century Style

An inscribed agate snuff bottle. 18th Century Style. Photo Bonhams

Well hollowed and carved in the shape of a ripe squash covered with leafy foliage and a grasshopper surrounding a short ode inscribed in clerical script comparing the olfactory and visual senses in aiding contemplation, signed Runzhi renxiong zi ti zhenwan (self-signed by your elder brother in spirit Runzhi, to be treasured and enjoyed) the design incorporating the brown inclusions of the stone. 1 3/4in (4.3 cm) high - Estimate: US$2,000 - 3,000

Property from the Collection of Linda Riddell Hoffman

Bonhams. Fine Asian Art, 21 Jun 2011, San Francisco www..bonhams.com