Antique Ceramic Opium Pillow/Head Rest, China (3847)

Description

Chinese have historically used various materials for making pillows including stone, jade, or wood in ancient times. Since the Sui Dynasty (581-618), ceramic became the most common material especially for opium pillows exported to overseas Chinese communities worldwide. The cold porcelain offset the warmth users experienced in smoking opium. They were often used in commercial opium dens where wealthy users  brought their own pillows for personal use.

Ceramic pillows were designed in different shapes to cradle the neck. Many were elaborately decorated with motifs reflecting the culture and fashions of the times.  They were often brightly painted with cobalt blue, red and green with fanciful geometrical, animal and figural shapes as well as scenes with architectural objects, rivers, mountains and Chinese characters.

This pillow has hand painted green and red florals, fruits, and vases over a white underglaze within framed geometrical borders of cobalt blue. The Chinese word ping means vase and is also a homophone for peaceful, indicating a wish for restful sleep or opium experience. The top center curve cradles the neck and flares outward. Raised and painted vase images embellish the front and fruit is on the back.

This pillow is in excellent condition except for a nick on the bottom border of the back.  The top and bottom have stamps that were applied on Chinese antiques when they were exported.