Dutch Pipe Case

The usual way to smoke tobacco following its introduction to Europe in 1558, was in the use of a fragile clay pipe, hence the need for a protective carrying case such as this Dutch walnut example skilfully decorated with brass.

Twisted wires are flattened and inlaid into a wrythen section leading to a brass mouth piece, whilst a hexagonal section leads to the bowl end and has the wire inlaid in conjunction with an arrangement of brass pins and carved detail. The bowl end of the case is hinged in order to open, allowing the pipe to be inserted. This part is decorated with pinned-on fretted brass-work, the pieces that edge the opening are further decorated with wrigglework engraving.

Dutch, circa 1720.

length 10 inches