19th Century Foo Dog Opium Pillow with Maker's Inscription

Ordering my cab to wait, I passed down the steps, worn hollow in the centre by the ceaseless tread of drunken feet; and by the light of a flickering oil-lamp above the door I found the latch and made my way into a long, low room, thick and heavy with the brown opium smoke, and terraced with wooden berths, like the forecastle of an emigrant ship. ~ Arthur Conan Doyle 

Perhaps nothing excited the Victorian imagination more than the mysteries of the Orient, particularly the strange and addictive drug known as opium.

Among all the paraphernalia associated with this habit, opium pillows made from wood, leather or porcelain were most popular. While porcelain pillows were hard, their cooling effect was popular among opium smokers, and after a few smokes their head would feel like they were laying on clouds.

Square ceramic pillows, such as this one, were produced in China for export to Europe or even South East Asia. One end here is decorated with a beautiful pierced lattice "coin" design, while the other end has an opening where the smoker would stash their belongings and valuables. They would then push that side towards the wall, keeping their valuables safe while hazed in opium dreams.

This particular one is glazed with auspicious motifs such as foo dogs as well as a maker's inscription, making it a lovely display piece as well as an interesting piece of social history. The yunwen or cloud border is a beautiful finishing touch.

Condition: Very good antique condition with some wear to corners commensurate with age and use.

Measurements: 14.5cm by 13cm by 6.5 cm height.