A bird's claw in exotic colours

September 2012

Although porcelain as a material is not particularly suitable for tobacco pipes, because it does not have a moisture-absorbing effect, it is nevertheless widely used. Not surprising, the appearance of porcelain is always fresh, even enhanced by enamel colours as this pipe shows. In terms of design, there is nothing special about it. The bird's claw at the bottom of the egg-shaped pipe bowl is a frequently used motif, presumably created by the clay pipe manufacturers, although it has also been worked out in other materials. A similar design of a claw is known from the Gambier company. In this case, the porcelain pipe is not a replica made by casting but produced after a new modeling. In terms of appearance, however, this pipe wins over the clay counterparts because here the pipe is finished in a stunning turquoise, which is then heightened with enamel dots and finally covered with gilt. It is clear that a striking pipe has been obtained. There is also luxury in the mounting. A silver band with engraving forms the zone between bowl and stem. Subsequently, no stem of caoutchouc or wood was chosen for the mouth piece, but the luxurious amber. Altogether, a new article was launched by the porcelain manufacturer for a wealthier category of smokers.

Amsterdam Pipe Museum APM 21.048

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