Baitong Water Pipe

Though commonly attributed to smoking opium, a water pipe such as this was actually used for smoking tobacco. Popular during the late Qing dynasty, these small water pipes work by the same principles as a hookah, drawing smoke through water held in the lower compartment for filtration.

Crafted of baitong (nickel silver), this pipe apparatus includes a second compartment with a hinged lid used to store loose tobacco, as well as spots for two accessories, likely a small brush and a tweezer. The side of the pipe is patterned with branching peonies, an emblem of springtime and a symbol of love and beauty. A keepsake from a bygone era, this unusual pipe captivates as an elegant sculptural object.