Antique Chinese Opium Pillow of Baby with Ball | Wood Karako
Here we have an ornately carved antique Chinese opium pillow of a baby playing with a ball. I can honestly say I never imagined typing that sentence at any point in my life. True! So before we get into to the craftsmanship of this little underground gem, let's ponder that fact that opium smokers of the Chinese tradition use this hard wooden carving as a pillow. I guess if you're smacked out on opium, anything can feel comfortable. But I digress...
The rare opium pillow comes out of a Twin Cities collection containing old Chinese artifacts, including many opium den related relics. She only collected the best. I'm guessing the piece is from the turn of the century.
The wooden opium pillows are more rare and sought after. This piece is as solid as they come. I can't get past the look on the baby's face. Maybe it's the smell of opium everywhere. Man, it is interesting, and equally disturbing. And yes, I tried out the pillow. A couple more chiropractic appointments and I'll be ready to roll again.
The old Chinese opium relic measures 9" long, 7 1/4" tall, and about 4" wide. There is patina from age consist throughout the carved piece. As stated above, the piece is solid. Please see all pics as they are part of the description.
I ship FedEx to street addresses in the continental USA only (no PO boxes). Free shipping on the rare Chinese artifact.
Such a strange form for such a seedy practice. The world is a very interesting place. Play ball!