Tobacco pipe, stem and mouthpiece
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
c. 1850
Pipe of the 19th century with carved wood stem with mother-of-pearl applications and seafoam bowl with silver applique in the upper area as a lid, as usual. Seafoam, or meerschaum (sepiolite), has been widely valued in the manufacture of smoking pipes since the 18th century due to its physical and aesthetic properties.
This mineral, of sedimentary origin and porous structure, is particularly prized for its ability to absorb moisture and tobacco residues, resulting in a drier, fresher and smoother smoke. In addition, its lightness and ease of carving allow the creation of highly ornamental shapes, which has elevated its status as a favorite material for the elaboration of artistic pipes.
Evidence at a glance
- Linked sources
- 1
- Photograph views
- 1
- Catalogue references
- 0
Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.
Physical characteristics
- Material (listing wording)
- Seafoam "Meerschaum", punched silver, mother-of-pearl wood
- Dimensions or weight (listing wording)
- 15 x 15 x 4 cm
Identification
- Source note
- Auction-house description published on Invaluable. Attribution and measurements describe the photographed example; independent type authentication remains research required.
- Listing object ID
- 198741626
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.
Research required
- Independent confirmation of type attribution and auction-house statements remains research required.