Bone Opium Pipe With Silver Muzzle. China, Late 19th–early 20th Century

A rare Chinese opium pipe carved from a single piece of wood and richly adorned with remarkable relief carving enhanced by refined polychrome decoration. The entire body is decorated with a complex figurative composition depicting Chinese dignitaries dressed in traditional court attire, moving among stylized clouds, floral motifs, and an ornamental scroll pattern. The finesse of the figures’ modeling, the richness of the polychrome palette, and the precision of the execution attest to the very high level of mastery of Chinese artisans specializing in bone carving.

The pipe is fitted with its original mount, including a metal bowl for opium and a silver mouthpiece, characteristic of luxury objects produced during the late Qing Dynasty. The harmonious combination of carved bone, polychrome decoration, and silver elements places this piece among the prestigious objects intended for a wealthy clientele. These pipes were not only functional accessories associated with the traditional culture of opium consumption in China but also true works of decorative art, illustrating the excellence of Chinese bone carving and the refinement of the decorative language specific to the art of imperial China.

Hallmarks: Silver mouthpiece. No visible hallmarks were noted.

Dimensions: Length: 43.5 cm.

ID-ANTQ-7963