The quartz family of stones, which includes chalcedony, was frequently used by artisans. The wide spectrum of colours gave the artisans much room to exercise their skill and imagination. This snuff bottle of flattened form has a brown inclusion on the front, which has been cleverly carved to depict a figure beating a drum. A vase issuing clouds of vapour can be seen next to the figure. Mask and ring handles are carved on the shoulders of the bottle.
