Antique Chinese Square Opium Pillow

Opium pillows were used in opium dens in China from the 19th century onwards. People would put their money and valuables in the pillow through the hole, and would lay down to smoke their opium. By pushing the open end against the wall and laying their head on the pillow, their valuables were protected even when the owners were intoxicated. The smokers claimed that the opium made the pillow feel as soft as a cloud and the warmth the opium brought would counteract the coolness of the porcelain.  Measures 5 1/2" tall x 4 1/2" wide x 2 1/2" deep.