antique meerschaum pipe (specifically likely a cheroot holder or cigar pipe) featuring an amber stem. Meerschaum is a soft, white mineral (magnesium hydrosilicate) prized by pipe makers for its porous nature, which allows it to absorb tobacco tars and change color over time.
Key Features
- Material: Carved from block meerschaum with a butterscotch-colored amber mouthpiece.
- Design: It has a classic "T-shape" or "hammer" style, often associated with Victorian-era smoking accessories.
- Case: It is housed in its original custom-fitted, hinged leather case lined with silk or velvet.
- Era: Similar items typically date from the late 19th to early 20th century (approx. 1880s–1920s). 070526