San Francisco Opium Session circa 1900

San Francisco Opium Session circa 1900
Originally uploaded by stevechasmar

This rare photo was taken in a San Francisco home around 1900. Typical of the decadence to be found in the city at the time, these upper middle-class residents have invited a Chinese opium smoker into their home to prepare pipes for what would have been a dreamy, day-long session. Confirmed opium smokers of the period learned to prepare their own pipes -- a difficult process that required much practice. For more historical photos of opium smokers as well as examples of antique opium accoutrements, visit www.OpiumMuseum.com