Snuff bottles were first produced in China in the early 18th century for the precious tobacco imported by European traders, and have been popular items for collection since then. Intially the bottles, along with the imported snuff, were luxury items made only for the imperial court, but as production increased throughout the 18th century, became more widespread and affordable (though they were still considered something of a status symbol).

The materials and techniques used in their production vary: early examples incorporate enamel technology introduced by Jesuits, while others demonstrate the high skill of crafstmen working with jade, glass and hardstone.