Very Large Vintage Team of Horses Block Meerschaum Pipe + Fitted Case – Unsmoked

Description

Very Large Vintage Team of Horses Block Meerschaum Pipe With Fitted Case – Unsmoked
Please read the descriptions carefully, and reference all images for inspection and description verification. We are not knowledgeable about pipes, so we have been dependent upon images and information (often from what collector’s share) on the Internet.
Some History:
This remarkable and detailed team of horses meerschaum pipe is from my late father-in-law’s collection. He had a beautiful pipe collection of which most have been sold. We kept one briar (American Smoking Pipe Co gargoyle or dragon) and one meerschaum (Eyup Sabri wolf) in his memory. This is one of two meerschaums presently available for auction.
My wife said her father began collecting pipes in the 1970s, and that he likely purchased this new from a shop in Old Town, Alexandria, Virginia. During our visit to the pipe shop where this pipe was likely purchased, it was mentioned that the owner would travel to Turkey, and selectively handpick pipes to bring back to the US. We are relatively certain that her father was the only owner of this pipe.
Description:
This is a handsome first quality genuine block meerschaum hand-carved pipe with superb artistry and detail that was made in Turkey. As stated by the pipe shop, this pipe is made of very high quality meerschaum.
It is very large measuring 5-1/4 inches in height, and over 15 inches in length when fully assembled. The included original fitted case is a green velvet material on its exterior with a white velvet interior.
We were unable to identify any marking or signature, but could be overlooking one. We read, and were informed that many meerschaums were never signed. Please let us know if there is anything that we can do to assist in identifying its maker/designer.
My wife has yet to find any paperwork for this pipe, but is always keeping a watchful eye. If anything is found, we will respectfully pass it forward.
Measurements and weights will be close, but may not be exact.
Pipe Length: Please note that the pipe and stem pieces were measured separately. This is an extra large sized pipe when the two measurements are added.
Pipe Length when Assembled: 15.25 inches
Pipe Length: 8.5 inches (not including stem)
Pipe Stem / Mouthpiece Length: 7.25 inches (including the piece (.50 inches) that connects the stem to the pipe.
Pipe Width: 2.125 inches
Pipe Height: 5.25 inches
Bowl Height: 3.0 inches
Chamber Depth: 2.25 inches
Across Bowl: 2.375 inches
Across Chamber: .875 inches
Pipe Weight: 7 ounces
Case: 11.25”L x 10.25”W x 3.0”H
Pipe and Case Total Weight: 1 pound 9 ounces
Condition:
We found a Polaroid photograph stating this pipe is a block meerschaum that was never smoked, which we concur from personal inspection. It is my wife's belief that this pipe remained in the case, and was never even displayed. We did not notice any teeth marks, charring, or tobacco scent, and the inside of the bowl appears clean.
From very careful inspection we found no flaws or damage to the meerschaum itself. If there are any flaws, we feel they would be in the making of the pipe.
The stem / mouthpiece has its own fitted resting area inside of the case. It appears it may have never been attached; therefore, we did not attach it for the photographs. We felt it was best to leave it in its original condition, and sincerely apologize to anyone who has any objection. We did not want to chance any damage.
The pipe and case may require minor cleaning due to storage. We noticed some discoloration on the material inside the case, which we believe may be due to age. It is our protocol to not clean pipes or cases, as we are unfamiliar with the cleaning process, and do not want to chance ruining the pipe or case.
Offers:
Unless an item is listed with the option of Best or Make Offer, we do not consider offers. We are negotiable, but respectfully will only consider and respond to reasonable offers when the Best or Make Offer option is available.
Return Policy:
If for any reason you are not 100% satisfied with this item, we will gladly accept returns within 14 days with the agreement that the merchandise is carefully repacked, and returned in as shipped condition, and then we will promptly refund your money.
Payment:
We accept eBay's default electronic payment methods only. If scheduling a local area pickup, then eBay's electronic payment upon pickup is fine should paying in advance for local area pickup pose any concerns. Please communicate with us if you are unable to pay within four days, so we can modify our auto unpaid item assistant preferences.
Local Area Pickup Option:
We will respectfully provide you ample time to thoroughly inspect the pipe.
E
veryone's health and safety must be mutually respected by following recommendations. We will courteously wear a mask, and require you to do the same. Being payment is electronic via eBay, the financial transaction will be contactless.
If possible, please be sure to provide the QR code you will receive via email from eBay, so we can scan it. Otherwise, it will be necessary for you to sign an invoice/receipt during pickup.
Shipment and Packaging:
This item will be very carefully packed, and shipped USPS Priority Mail within the USA, or via the Global Shipping Program for International. We might utilize the USPS scheduled pickup option, which may delay shipment by one day. Please note that this package will be insured at our expense in the event of loss or damage during shipping.