The Thomson Collection contains more than 200 snuff bottles made in China over the four centuries in a broad range of materials and techniques. Join experts Robert and Lindsay Hall to learn more about the history of snuff bottles and our collection. The Halls worked with Ken Thomson to help him assemble his collection over many years. Finally, contemporary snuff bottle painter Jinpeng Wang will offer a live demonstration of reverse glass painting to decorate inside-painted snuff bottles.   

Jinpeng Wang is a third-generation practitioner of the Ji-style inside-painting snuff bottle art, a traditional Chinese art form rooted in Qing Dynasty. He was born in November 1995 into a renowned family of artists: his grandfather, Xisan Wang, is the founder of the Ji School of inside painting and a recognized international-level master; his father, Ziyong Wang, and mother, Haili Wang, are also accomplished artists in the field. Growing up in such an environment, Jinpeng has been deeply immersed in the techniques and spirit of inside painting since childhood