Ruby & Turquoise Waterpipe

Smoking the waterpipe, known in Iran as the ghalyan, has a long tradition. Chardin, the French jeweller who visited Safavid-era Persia in the late 17th century, mentions in his travel diary that the tobacco and the water were often scented and flavored with herbs, fruits, and rosewater.

The waterpipe is studded with turquoise and rubies. The top of the pipe is enamel, and bears the image of a princess. The total height of the vase-shaped base of the pipe is 27 cm. (11 in.)