Petite Erotic Opium Box

c. 1850

$800

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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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