Antique Opium Pipe

Bamboo Opium Pipe with Silver Saddle & Ivory Mounts

China

19th century

length: 59.5cm

This opium pipe is one of the most elegant and well-proportioned such pipes we have seen. It comprises a single piece of bamboo with an ivory mouthpiece and end-piece, and a pierced, silver (not paktong) saddle embellished with brass and copper inlay and inset with cabochon stones in box settings.

As with most opium pipes made for use, the bamboo segment used comprises one natural segment of bamboo plus a part of the next segment, with the three-pronged subsidiary stem knob left attached at the joint.

The silver saddle has stylised cloud motif borders, and is chased and pierced with Chinese ‘cash’ symbols, bats (in silver and inset with copper) and an inlaid brass longevity symbol. The aperture where the bowl of the pipe would be attached is surrounded by pierced borders highlight with fine copper inlay.

The saddle is further embellished by being inset with three large cabochon stones – possibly two amethysts and a yellow stone – perhaps a citrine,

Whilst opium pipes were made from a variety of materials, the mixture of materials used to make this set – principally bamboo, ivory and silver – was considered the most ideal by opium users (Lee, 2006.) A well-seasoned bamboo pipe was felt to greatly enhance the flavour of the opium vapour and also its potency.

Most opium pipes available today are reproduction pieces – it is rare now for genuine examples to appear on the market. The patina of this example, the quality of the materials used in its manufacture, and its resinous interior attest to its age and past use.

Overall, this is the finest Chinese opium pipe that we have seen. There are clear signs of age and use. It is in excellent condition. The yellow stone inset into the saddle has some minor chipping but otherwise there are no significant condition issues.

References

Lee, P., Opium Culture: The Art & Ritual of the Chinese Tradition, Park Street Press, 2006.

Martin, S., The Art of Opium Antiques, Silkworm Books, 2007.

Provenance

UK art market

Inventory no.: 2331

SOLD