Art Pipe Appraisal

Figural Face Smoking Pipe

The item is a small, handheld smoking pipe, specifically a pipe bowl designed to resemble a human face. It measures approximately 3-4 inches in length judging by its placement in an adult's hand. The material appears to be a composite, possibly clay, meerschaum, or a similar porous stone, given its texture and varied coloration. The primary colors visible are shades of dark brown, off-white/cream, and mottled grey/black, with hints of blue in the eye areas. The construction is solid, and it features a single, relatively large bowl opening at the top, which shows signs of use and residue, indicating it has been smoked. The face rendering is stylized, with prominent features: a large, pointed nose, sunken eye sockets, and a textured, possibly bearded lower face. The eyes themselves appear to be small, dark, and possibly inlaid or painted with a dark blue pigment that has partially worn away. There are noticeable areas of wear and discoloration, particularly around the rim of the bowl and on the raised facial features, suggesting either heavy use or a deliberate antiqued finish. The textured, coarser areas on the lower part of the face and chin seem to be an intentional part of the design, mimicking a beard or rough skin. There are no clear manufacturer's marks or signatures visible from the provided image. The style suggests a folk art or artisan-crafted piece, potentially from a mid-20th century to contemporary period, though without specific marks, its age is hard to pinpoint. The craftsmanship, while appearing somewhat rustic, shows attention to detail in the carving of the facial features, giving it a distinct character.