Chinese Opium Pipe Bowl

A squat, round-bellied pot-shape with two little ears and a herringbone belt

This opium pipe bowl is from China, and dates to the mid 19th century. It is stamped pottery. Opium beds and day beds were crafted with high artistry, intended for higher class smokers who could recline for hours, and some had carved footpads of Foo Dogs, perhaps as protectors. A rounded, light gray-brown object with a flat top and a central hole, two small lug handles at the sides and a band of scratched herringbone marks around the middle. It sits on a short round foot. It is 1.5 inches high and 2 in diameter.

It has little ears, a belt of stitches and a very calm face.