Description: This is a larger version of the commemorative pipes that were purchased in Germany at the end of the 19th century and beginning of 20th century by graduating students from regimental academies and such. They are invariably beautiful and were costly, even in their day. The new officer candidates were very proud of these handsome objects that served as mementos from their time of service. Gesteckpfeife, literally means “pipe in parts.”As its name suggests, this piece was composed of several interconnecting parts: a bowl and expansion chamber (also known as a “sump”) where the moisture collected. It was Y-shaped, with one end inserted into the bowl, and the other end inserted into a long tube, the third part, which ended in the mouthpiece, the fourth part. Another interesting feature was the addition of a flexible tube, reminiscent of the hookah (not included). The pipe was designed so that once the smoke left the bowl, it was drawn down into the sump where it would lose moisture, and then be drawn up along the long wooden tube and cooled before reaching the mouthpiece. The shape of the pipe with its almost vertical long tube, the cylindrical bowl almost parallel to the tube and the slightly inclined mouthpiece recall a saxophone. This was the most common design of porcelain pipes in the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, especially in Germany. This pipe is an outstanding example of the more exuberant gesteckpfeife pipes of the period. It has the depiction of Kaiser Wilhelm II as its central theme incased in what appears to be brass or bronze on the vertical pipe that includes the inscription "Long live the reserveman." The top end of the pipe is shaped as a German spike helmet finished in what appears to be black lacquer with gold-plated ornaments. The striking metal horse and horseshoe integrated element is able to spin.The various sections (20+) comprise hand-fashioned bone or horn (elaborately carved), wood, bark covering as well as finely machined steel and alloyed metal details. When laid out straight the whole piece measures approximately four (4) feet in length. The pipe bowl measures just over 6 inches in length and is about 1.5 inches wide. Note the chipped end in the photographs, which is not uncommon for porcelain bowls from the period, does not prevent it from securely attaching to the main pipe. There are two Old German inscriptions: the first appears to detail the owner Stolz from the city of Bieten and his service from 1910 to 1913; the second declares, "Girls, let us cry for the recruits." The lid on the bowl is reminiscent of a stylized regiment hat. It is slightly indented and the finish shows signs of wear. The bowl is surrounded by raised oak leaves and acorns tied together by a bow at the bottom. The finish is in outstanding condition. The two tassels are in remarkable shape for their age.This is a really gorgeous item and reminds one of the glories of the Hohenzollern Reich at its peak. It is a piece to be admired by those who discern the tradition, style and complexity of porcelain pipes. Overall, the pipe is in unusually good condition. It is being sold as part of an estate sale. Complimentary shipping is included. Be sure to check out our other vintage items for sale.
Price: 275 USD
Location: Denver, Colorado
End Time: 2024-12-09T22:24:27.000Z
Shipping Cost: 0 USD
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Item Specifics
All returns accepted: ReturnsNotAccepted
Country/Region of Manufacture: Germany
