A RHINOCEROS HORN OPIUM PIPE QING DYNASTY, 18TH CENTURY

the long cylindrical tube formed from a two straight pieces of horn forming the 'stem', carved with a small squirrel and grapes in relief below the silver mounted 'saddle' finely inlaid in silver wire with a dense design of poppies, leaves, deer, vases and coins, the coin with a cyclical date yi zhou (corresponding to 1745), with traces of blue and green enamelling remaining within the wires, further set with an upright short circular 'coin' shaped neck for attaching to the bowl, fitted on each end with ivory mounts, the ivory mouthpiece pierced at the top with a small hole, the the horn of warm brown tone and a smooth patina

Collection of Franklin Chow (purchased in London, 1990).

The overall condition is very good. Most of the enamelling within the wires have fallen out, but the design is very clear. The pipe still has residue from use.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Fashioned using the length of a large rhinoceros horn, this pipe is an unusual example of a collaboration between a horn carver and a silversmith. The end of the pipe is made of ivory, while the working part of the opium pipe is made of a silver alloy. Pipes of this type were more commonly carved from bamboo; the present example, fashioned from this expensive material must have belonged to a member of the gentry.