Petite Erotic Opium Box

c. 1850
$800 USD
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Dimensions
W: 1.5" D: 0.75" H: 1.75"
Materials
Brass
Copper
Purchase Quantity
Collection #
CDKZ038
Estimated Shipping
$38

A petite white brass (baitong) canister once used to store a smoker's personal supply of opium paste. Dated to the 19th-century, the box is an example of Qing-dynasty erotica, incorporated discreetly into other objects so that it was hidden, but close to hand.

The box exterior is etched with characters on one side and a fine lady on the other. Pushing against the repoussé bat on the lid allows you to remove the outer casing, revealing an erotic scene on either side of the box. The lid removes to reveal a copper-lined interior.

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PIPE DREAMS

Beginning in the 18th century, smoking opium recreationally became an entire culture unto itself, replete with beautifully crafted paraphernalia that expressed one's good taste and refinement.

Each step of the smoking process called for a different accessory, each an opportunity to impress.

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Andrea Goldman | Andrea Goldman Design

“Over the years, I’ve incorporated many pieces from PAGODA RED into my designs. Not only can they balance new furnishings (and often new construction) by feeling more established, but the pieces emanate a sense of rich history, often leaving you wondering where they were in a previous life. These beautiful pieces carefully hand-selected by the team at PAGODA RED, coupled with their unbelievable customer service, make them a must-have for any home.”

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