1760-1850

Puddingstone is the general term for a conglomerate of sedimentary flint pebbles in a matrix of chert - both part of the quartz family. Bottles carved from this striking material come in a wide variety of colors, textures, sizes and shapes. The stone's appearance is not dissimilar to plum pudding, from which it derives its name. The variation in size of the pebbles sets up an attractive counterpoint to the beige matrix and the combination of shapes and sizes creates a strong design that compliments the simple and tactile form.

For a range of bottles in this material, see B. Stevens, The Collector's Book of Snuff Bottles, New York, 1976, nos. 609-17. A similar bottle was sold at Christie's New York, The Ruth and Carl Barron Collection of Fine Chinese Snuff Bottles: Part IV, 15 March 2017, lot 301.