RZM Fine Arts and Antiques Inc Presents: Ask the Appraiser

After reading your informative article relating to the trade and sale of Ivory, I got to thinking about this old ivory pipe that my father received as a gift from a distant relative, sometime back in the 1930s. I remember my father explaining to me that this particular relative was an antiques collector, possessing many beautiful things. Well here lies my dilemma. Based on your previous article, I have come to understand that ivory is illegal to sell. So, no matter how beautiful an item may be, or it’s age, you cannot sell it. We’ve actually kept this pipe in a safe for many years, so it has remained undamaged. It measures just over 9 inches and has the original case. It appears to be unused. Do I just put it back in the safe and forget about it? Am I to assume it has no value? Can I sell it? If so, where? Thank you for your time and effort in assisting me.

Donald

Great news! You certainly can offer your pipe for sale and pipe collectors will line up to purchase it. Your large ornate pipe is not made of ivory at all. This fantastic carved Meerschaum pipe dates from the mid-nineteenth century and is made from a soft clay like material found in Turkey. Meerschaum is a German word translated to “sea form.” It refers to the natural eggshell white color and the lightweight quality of this material. Antique Meerschaum pipes are highly sought after by collectors due to their unique designs and the artistry involved in their creation.

Some pipes, especially those with unique designs, can be quite rare, further increasing their value. Of which, your pipe is certainly one. As a matter of fact, it gives me pleasure to inform you that your particular Meerschaum pipe is absolutely of the highest quality I’ve ever had the pleasure to see. Just for the record, I’ve owned hundreds of Meerschaum pipes from collections I’ve purchased. If you are unsure of the material of this pipe, a simple test can enlighten you. Moisten your finger to touch the inside of the bowl. If your finger slightly sticks to the pipe, you have a genuine Meerschaum pipe. This pipe features a detailed scene of a reclining nude with a pair of playful putties along the front, framed in acanthus scrolling. Very high-quality carving throughout the entire pipe. Without a doubt, this highly desirable pipe would best be offered for sale through an internationally recognized auction house, specializing in objects de vertu, in order to reach as many serious collectors as possible. Thankfully, your pipe appears undamaged and unused. It has remained in excellent condition. That being the case, the value of this wonderful antique pipe is 3000 USD. I will also note it is beneficial that you have the original case for this pipe. Often, the case is lost to time. Please continue to take excellent care of this museum quality piece.