We normally associate cased, amber stemmed meerschaum pipes from the turn of the last century with Austria (and to a lesser extent the United States). But this pipe, and the others in this group, shows that the French--specifically the artisans of St. Claude--were notably adept with these materials. It is an elegantly cut classic straight billiard with double beading and a subtly tapered shank. An extra-long tapered fossil amber bit with orific mouthpiece connects to the shank with a bone screw tenon. It comes with a custom made fitted case, woven silk and velvet lining and leather covering with gold piping, which is marked "Ecume Veritable" (real meerschaum) and "ambre pur" (pure amber).
The quality of materials and workmanship first rate, and can withstand comparison with the best Viennese pipes of the period. Best of all, it's in perfect, unsmoked condition. A rare opportunity.