Sadik Yanik XL Hunter Estate Block Meerschaum Pipe, Turkish Estates

Description

Not entirely unlike 20th century briar pipe workshop, the workshop’s of Turkey’s meerschaum carvers are ruled by hierarchies. One way this hierarchy manifests is via master-apprentice relationships; another is the right to have one’s name on one’s pipes. Most meerschaum pipes are only identifiable by way of the branding of the workshop, or the shop the pipe is sold through, except for those pipes made by the most accomplished and respected carvers. In the case of the latter, the carver will also sign their own name on the pipe itself. Sadik Yanik is one of Turkey’s most acclaimed meerschaum carvers, owing to his sheer mastery of the medium. His range is nothing less than impressive; from floral motifs, to mythological tableaus, to scenes of nature, and indeed to busts, Yanik’s mastery knows no bounds. This particular pipe looks to be a hunter, or perhaps a nobleman, from the early modern period, with a fur-brimmed cap and flowing moustache and beard. The figure is captured in minute detail by Yanik’s hands, showing once again just how close meerschaum carving is to the sculpture more associated with fine art.

The condition is great. Minor wear to the inner rim.

Details:

Length: 6.2″ / 157.4mm

Bowl Width: 0.82 / 20.82mm

Bowl Depth: 2.06″ / 52.32mm

Weight: 2.5oz / 72g