In July 1994 a local resident was walking his dog near Roydon Fen when he noticed a white clay pipe sticking out of the soil of a newly furrowed field.

 

This led to the discovery of more than 5,000 items of historical interest, most of which were clay pipes and one of them being this rare Jonas Pipe. Quite how the Jonas Pipe, and the other artefacts found with it, came to be near Roydon Fen, is still a mystery, however the history surrounding such pipes is fascinating.

​

The Jonas Pipe depicts what is thought to be Jonah and the Whale, or Sir Walter Raleigh and an Alligator, and was popular with mariners in the 1630 period. For a long time, it was believed that the design on the pipes commemorated the legend of Raleigh falling overboard, being seized by an alligator but the alligator rejecting him due to his smoke impregnated body, hence they were also known as Raleigh Pipes. There is also said to be a political overtone - the alligator representing King James I who hated smoking and hated Raleigh, who helped to popularise smoking. The more widely accepted name, Jonas Pipe, is derived from the biblical story of Jonah and the Whale. The imagery often featured Jonah being swallowed by a sea creature, symbolizing themes of redemption and survival.

​

Historical Context​

The production of clay pipes in the Netherlands began in the early 17th century, with Gouda emerging as a major centre for this craft. The city's strategic location along trade routes facilitated the export of the pipes to various parts of the world, including England, where they became highly sought after.

​

Craftsmanship and Design​

Jonas Pipes are distinguished by their elaborate designs and the skill required to produce them. The process involved shaping the pipe from a mixture of clay and water, followed by meticulous detailing using moulds and hand tools. The pipes were then fired in kilns to harden them. The bowl of the pipe typically depicted the head of Jonah, while the stem often featured a sea creature swallowing or regurgitating him.

The heel of the pipe, a small protrusion at the base of the bowl, often bore the maker's mark. These marks are crucial for identifying the origin and date of the pipes. For instance, a pipe with the heel mark "IVS" can be dated to between 1715 and 1730. The city of Gouda granted pipe makers the right to add the city's shield to their products, further enhancing their authenticity and value.

​

Cultural Significance​

The popularity of Jonas Pipes extended beyond their practical use for smoking. They became a symbol of social status and were often used as gifts or trade items. The intricate designs and high-quality craftsmanship made them desirable collectibles. In England, for example, these pipes were considered luxury items and were often found in the possession of the wealthy.

​

The production of Jonas Pipes also had economic implications. The industry provided employment for many artisans and contributed to the economic prosperity of Gouda. The widespread distribution of these pipes helped to establish the Netherlands as a significant player in the global tobacco trade.

​

Preservation and Legacy​

Today, Dutch Jonas clay pipes are valuable artifacts for historians and collectors. They offer insights into the social and economic history of the 17th and 18th centuries. Museums around the world, such as Diss Museum, house collections of these pipes, preserving them for future generations to study and appreciate.

​

Dutch Jonas Pipes are more than just smoking instruments; they are a testament to the artistry and cultural exchange of their time. Their intricate designs and historical significance continue to captivate and inform us about a bygone era.