BONE OPIUM PIPE WITH SILVER MOUTHPIECE. CHINA, LATE 19TH TO EARLY 20TH CENTURY

A rare Chinese opium pipe carved from a single piece of bone, richly embellished with exceptionally fine relief carving and polychrome decoration. The entire shaft is adorned with an intricate figural composition depicting Chinese noblemen in traditional court attire, surrounded by stylised clouds, flowering plants, and ornamental scrollwork. The refined modelling of the figures, vibrant polychrome palette, and remarkable attention to decorative detail demonstrate the outstanding craftsmanship of Chinese master bone carvers. The pipe retains its original metal opium bowl and a silver mouthpiece, characteristic of high-quality Chinese luxury smoking implements produced during the late Qing Dynasty. The harmonious combination of carved bone, polychrome decoration, and silver fittings identifies this object as a prestigious example intended for a wealthy owner. Such pipes served not only as functional accessories of traditional Chinese opium culture but also as highly accomplished works of decorative art, illustrating the exceptional virtuosity of Chinese bone carving and the sophisticated symbolic language of late Imperial Chinese craftsmanship. Marks: Silver mouthpiece. No visible hallmarks observed. Dimensions: Length: 43.5 cm.

Estimate:£167.34

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