Antique Chinese Opium Pillow of Baby with Ball | Wood Karako

Here we have an ornately carved antique Chinese opium pillow of a baby playing with a ball. I can honestly say I never imagined typing that sentence at any point in my life. True! So before we get into to the craftsmanship of this little underground gem, let's ponder that fact that opium smokers of the Chinese tradition use this hard wooden carving as a pillow. I guess if you're smacked out on opium, anything can feel comfortable. But I digress...The rare opium pillow comes out of a Twin Cities collection containing old Chinese artifacts, including many opium den related relics. She only collected the best. I'm guessing the piece is from the turn of the century. The wooden opium pillows are more rare and sought after. This piece is as solid as they come. I can't get past the look on the baby's face. Maybe it's the smell of opium everywhere. Man, it is interesting, and equally disturbing. And yes, I tried out the pillow. A couple more chiropractic appointments and I'll be ready to roll