Turkish Estates: Unknown Meerschaum Bearded Man Tobacco Pipe

Also known as sepiolite, meerschaum as a pipe-making material predates briar in common use, with meerschaum pipes in Turkey dating back to the early 18th century. The name "meerschaum" is derived from the German word for "sea foam," referencing the material's white coloration and light weight. Owing to its malleability when wet, ornate carvings and intricate figurals are frequently seen within the medium, making for pipes with striking, artistically-inclined designs. Meerschaum is also lauded for its porosity, allowing it to provide a flavor-neutral smoking experience and develop a warm patina with continued use over time. This Bearded Man figural by an unknown maker is an excellent example of the precise detail that can be rendered with the material.