The Illustrated History of the Pipe (The pleasures of life)

Pipes, which can offer absolute satisfaction, are best enjoyed in a quiet atmosphere where they can be puffed calmly and gently. The origins of the pipe are shrouded in the mists of antiquity and may even be as old as the discover of fire itself. But, whatever its origin, the pipe has always been synonymous with pleasure and with creativity. This book reveals the complete history of the pipe across centuries and across continents - always and continuously evolving. It describes the diversity of materials from which pipes have been made, from briar to meerschaum, from clay to glass, and from cherrywood to porcelain. It also features the secrets of pipe-making, the production of tobacco, the key to enjoyment for the pip-smoker, the world of pip-collectors and, above all, the skills of the master pipe-makers in search of perfection. From London to Saint-Claude, from Gouda to Copenhagen and from America to Turkey - this book takes the reader on a journey of discovery which reveals in all its glory the story of the pipe and the serenity which it offers.