Coconut snuffbox incised with an inscription on each side, China, dated 1871 Composed of two curved, circular coconut parts. They have been joined by three small wooden dowels to form the body of the bottle. The top has been smoothed and worked to form a round opening for a stopper to close the snuffbox. Each side bears an inscription. 鹤卿仁大兄乔迁之属 / 时在辛未 / 六月？告 / 申江友瑶製 - "To the honorable elder brother He Qing(ren), in congratulations on his move. In the year Xinwei, in the sixth month, 1871. Made by YouYao of Shenjiang (Shanghai)". 取只材落共（芳）/ 賓江不饮之以自异 / 吾岂匏瓜也哉？/ 焉能系而不食？- "We cut down wood and throw it back into the river, abstaining from drinking to distinguish ourselves from others. Am I a mere hanging bitter gourd, without use? How can I be bound without ever being used for anything? Height: 6 cm Over time, the two parts have become slightly disjointed. Provenance : Me Jutheau sale, July 2, 1984, lot 164 (illustrated).