19th Century Chinese Leather Opium Pillow Asian Lacquer Long Cinnabar Red Black Wood Antique Calligraphy

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Extra Long Antique Chinese Lacquered Leather Pillow
Size: 6'' x 43'' x 6''

This cinnabar colored lacquered pillow adds an … Read more Extra Long Antique Chinese Lacquered Leather Pillow
Size: 6'' x 43'' x 6''

This cinnabar colored lacquered pillow adds an extra long and linear pop of color on a coffee table or entry console
Perhaps nothing excited the Victorian imagination more than the mysteries of the Orient, particularly the strange and addictive drug known as opium.

Among all the paraphernalia associated with this habit, opium pillows made from lacquered wood or leather were most popular. This rare and unusually long pillow was probably used on a newly wed couples wide bed.

This Chinese Qing dynasty period 19th century cinnabar and black lacquer rectangular shaped leather pillow from an antique opium bed, with hand painted calligraphy motifs. Created in China during the Qing dynasty in the 19th century, this leather pillow features a cinnabar lacquer contrasting beautifully with black accents. Showcasing a rectangular shape on which the opium smoker would lay his or her head, the pillow is adorned with hand-painted calligraphy on each side, standing out on a black frame.
The history of opium dens started some 300 years ago and is rooted in the trade relations between England and China. Opium dens in the 19th century catered to all layers of society, but differed in furnishings and attendants. Rich customers would lay on a bed and rest their necks on opium pillows made either of lacquered wood or leather. This allowed their elaborate hair styles intact. After a while, the pillow would feel like a cloud.

With its great colors and undeniable history, this Chinese Qing Dynasty period red lacquer leather opium pillow will make for a great decorative addition to any living room or bedroom! See less