Embellished clear amber bottles are rare and are usually decorated in Japan. This bottle appears to have been decorated in China at an earlier date than the so-called Shibayama group. For two examples of the Shibayama group see Bob C. Stevens, The Collector's Book of Snuff Bottles, col. pl. 1025, and Sotheby's, New York, Fine Chinese Snuff Bottles, December 2, 1985, lot 123