Statement of Significance - Paraguayan Tobacco Pipe

 

Tobacco Pipe belonging to the Suhin (Sukin is believed to be a misspelling) of the Paraguayan Chaco.

There are few resources that discuss the Suhin people in detail, but it is clear from these reports that tobacco smoking makes up a large part of their social culture (though not as a part of shamanistic ritual), and reference is repeatedly made to the elaborate nature of tobacco pipes, whilst this pipe is far more simplistic in nature. Although the finish may not be generally representative of Suhin pipes, the general shape of the pipe, especially the wide, flat mouthpiece is stylistically very typical of the area (see below).

Overall, the pipe appears to be fairly unique in nature. Similar examples could not be found either in the literature, or in museum collections (both the British Museum and Smithsonian were consulted). Interestingly, whilst the minimalistic nature of the pipe may have reduced its material value in the past, it is this that adds the greatest current significance to this artefact. Furthermore, this pipe is unusual in the evidence of use that can be seen across the surface (see below). This was not seen in any of the other examples that were able to be examined, adding further value to the pipe.

Finally, the pipe’s position as part of the UCL teaching collection (believed to have been part of a donation from W. Gibbons along with a number of other artefacts) further adds to its intangible value – not only is it significant in terms of its own biography, but also in what it can teach students.

Due to the limited nature of the literature, as well as the present significance attributed to the pipe, this artefact appears to be of great significance, despite its apparently modest appearance at first glance.