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CHINESE TORTOISESHELL AND METAL OPIUM PIPE WITH HEXAGONAL BOWL COVER
Origin: China
Date: Late 19th–early 20th century
Materials: Tortoiseshell, metal alloy, lacquer
Dimensions: Appro 62 × 9 cm
Description:
Chinese opium pipe showing a long, polished stem crafted from mottled tortoiseshell, prized for its warm amber and deep brown tones. At its center rises a hexagonal metal bowl cover, finely engraved with decorative patterns and mounted on a short, ridged neck that connects to an elaborately worked metal saddle. The engraved designs on the saddle include scrolling motifs and stylized flourishes, reflecting the fine craftsmanship typical of luxury opium-smoking implements.
Cultural Context:
During the late Qing dynasty, opium smoking was a ritualized social practice among China’s wealthy elite. High-quality pipes such as this were often custom-made, incorporating precious and exotic materials that signified the owner’s status and taste. Tortoiseshell, in particular, was valued not only for its beauty but also for the skill required to work it into such long, slender forms without fracture.
Origin: China
Date: Late 19th–early 20th century
Materials: Tortoiseshell, metal alloy, lacquer
Dimensions: Appro 62 × 9 cm
Description:
Chinese opium pipe showing a long, polished stem crafted from mottled tortoiseshell, prized for its warm amber and deep brown tones. At its center rises a hexagonal metal bowl cover, finely engraved with decorative patterns and mounted on a short, ridged neck that connects to an elaborately worked metal saddle. The engraved designs on the saddle include scrolling motifs and stylized flourishes, reflecting the fine craftsmanship typical of luxury opium-smoking implements.
Cultural Context:
During the late Qing dynasty, opium smoking was a ritualized social practice among China’s wealthy elite. High-quality pipes such as this were often custom-made, incorporating precious and exotic materials that signified the owner’s status and taste. Tortoiseshell, in particular, was valued not only for its beauty but also for the skill required to work it into such long, slender forms without fracture.
