Meerschaum


      Meerschaum is a sedementary calcium fossil that is only to be found at Eskisehir in Turkey. Light weight and heat resistant, it has the quality to absorb nicotine and tar. The transformation in colour that comes through use is anither of its characteristics.
      The first pipes made from meershaum were probably of Hungarian origin. But it was the Austrians who became without doubt masters in it sculpture. With an accomplished notoriety world wid, they set out to conquer Europe and the United States.
      Artists such as Samuel, Adler, Hartmann were promoted as sculpters attached to the Royal Austrian Court of Imperials. They produced exceptionnal piecees that were destined above all for use by diplomats.

      By 1945 with the armistice signed, all production had ended in Austria.
In the 60's and 70's the Turkish went into production with much uncertitude.
The fundemental technics of creation posed problems. Europe did not appreciate a chain production. Despite this in the 80's and 90's, the style became affirmed, certain sculpteurs produce pieces of precision and refinement.