Chinese glass snuff bottle with women scene, inside painted

The Chinese snuffbox, painted on the inside, is a fascinating and highly collectible art object, representative of traditional Chinese craftsmanship. Materials: These snuffboxes are often made of glass or agate, allowing the artist to paint from the inside. Technique: The painting is done with a very fine brush, sometimes made of simple hair, through the narrow opening of the snuffbox. Dexterity: Artists have to show admirable dexterity to paint complex scenes inside these small containers. Themes: The motifs vary but often include landscapes, scenes of daily life, animals and historical or mythological figures. Signatures: These snuffboxes are signed by a recognised master, increasing their value and desirability but we do not know who it was. Collection: They are prized by collectors and can be appraised, dated and authenticated. These works of art require meticulous work and can take from three months to a year to complete. Not only are they collectors' items, they also bear witness to China's cultural and artistic history.