Late 19th Century Antique Chinese Water Pipe

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Description

This antique Chinese water pipe, from the late 19th century and originating from Canton, China. This water pipe designed for … Read more This antique Chinese water pipe, from the late 19th century and originating from Canton, China. This water pipe designed for smoking tobacco, often mistaken for an opium pipe due to similar historical contexts and settings where both were used. These pipes were typically made of brass or "pakton," an alloy of copper, nickel, and zinc, also known as white copper. It typically consists of a small bowl for tobacco, a water chamber, a pipe stem, and a mouthpiece. The base often features intricate etchings or engravings, as seen in pictures, floral scenes and a rabbit.
When tobacco is burned in the small bowl, the smoke passes through water in the chamber for cooling and filtration before being inhaled through the mouthpiece, creating a percolating sound. These pipes were not only functional smoking instruments but also items reflecting social status and cultural practices in 19th-century China. It is a true collectible item.

Size: 10in H x 3in W x 1in D
Origin: China
Circa: Late Qing dynasty
Material: White copper
Condition: Original finished, handcrafted, very good antique condition. , normal age wear.
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