Chinese design

19 January 2024

Working in briar has now become an international tradition. Two tobacco pipes from the Chinese maker Xu Hai prove this. Trained as a calligrapher and visual artist, this pipe smoker developed briar pipes in his own style. It is said to be inspired by the pipes of the famous Dane Ivarsson, but those who can freely associate can also distinguish other influences. Both examples depicted here were given to our museum as a gift by a pipe enthusiast from South China. A welcome addition to our collection of modern briars and a rare variation on the traditional Chinese smoking pipes here.

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