Bekler Signed Sitting Turkey Meerschaum Pipe

Bekler Signed Sitting Turkey Meerschaum Pipe - This meticulous carving of the Ismet Bekler Turkey Meerschaum Pipe is a remarkable example of masterful hand carving, showcasing both artistry and precision. The pipe is sculpted in the detailed form of a turkey, complete with finely textured feathers, wings, and a lifelike expression. Every feather is precisely etched, giving the carving depth and realism that highlights Bekler’s status as one of the most respected meerschaum carvers in history.

The bowl of this pipe is exceptionally deep, providing generous space for packing tobacco and ensuring long, relaxing smoking sessions. Bearing the signature I. Bekler on the smooth shank, it stands as both an authentic work of art and a highly collectible piece prized by meerschaum enthusiasts. Its warm, marbled, pearlescent brown bent stem creates a striking contrast against the pure white meerschaum, enhancing the pipe’s visual appeal. Despite its impressive size, the pipe is lightweight and well-balanced, delivering the cool, dry smoking experience that has made meerschaum pipes cherished for years.

The pipe comes in its original green leather custom-fitted case, handmade with brass hinges and soft velvet lining for protection. While the leather case shows minimal signs of wear, it retains its structural integrity and adds vintage charm to this collectible piece. Whether for smoking enjoyment or display, the Bekler Turkey Meerschaum Pipe is a perfect addition to any collection. Its artistic detail, authentic signature, and functional quality ensure it stands as both a fine smoking pipe and a valued, rare collectible work of art.

Ismet Bekler was one of Turkey’s most prolific and celebrated meerschaum pipe carvers, renowned for his artistry and innovation. His talent was first recognized in the early 1970s when Irving Korn discovered his work during a trip to Turkey. By 1977, Bekler had partnered with CAO, a company then closely tied to Tinder Box pipe shops, to bring his carvings to the American market. This collaboration marked the beginning of Bekler signing his pipes, making his work more identifiable and sought after by collectors.

As demand grew, Bekler continued to design and carve the intricate bowls himself while allowing skilled craftsmen in his workshop to handle sanding, waxing, and stem fitting. This balance allowed him to produce more pipes while maintaining the high level of quality for which he became famous. Over his long career, Bekler established himself as one of the greatest meerschaum carvers in Turkish history, with his creations admired worldwide for their detail, elegance, and smoking qualities.

Ismet Bekler passed away in 2018 at the age of 84, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of hand-carved meerschaum pipes that remain prized by collectors and pipe enthusiasts. Today, his name stands as a symbol of authenticity, artistry, and timeless craftsmanship in the world of meerschaum carving.

All dimensions are approximate.

Length: 7.5"
Height: 3.3"
Width: 1.8"
Depth: 2.3"
Bowl Dia.: 0.83"