@alexnorth
The pipe is made of clay, which means it is quite fragile. It does however pass the pipe cleaner test.
@jitterbugdude
I would happily take you up on your offer to provide the ancient leaf, as I have reserved this pipe for something of that sort. This pipe is both a novelty and a work of cultural art. I will smoke it, but it certainly won't become my "go to" pipe.
Symbolically this pipe represents the historical bond man has had with tobacco over the centuries, and perhaps over the millennium. I consider an attack on tobacco or tobacco users an attack on our natural heritage. I believe that it is irresponsible to demonize this wonderful medicinal plant that has accompanied us though our evolution. Tobacco is worthy of recognition as one of the great building blocks of America. So quickly the populous forget the significant role tobacco played in sustenance, growth and viability of the colonies.
Thanks to all of you for sharing my interest in the history of pipe smoking.