Smokiana: Historical; Ethnographical

A vivid, illustrated journey through the global history of smoking, this work blends meticulous research with the charm of a 19th‑century manuscript. Beginning with the spread of Nicotiana from its early European woodcuts to far‑flung plantations in Borneo and Sumatra, the author catalogues the many tobacco varieties—Virginia, Rustica, Persica and more—detailing their growth habits, colors, and regional names.

The second half reads like a museum catalog, showcasing an astonishing array of pipes and related implements from stone and soapstone to brass, clay, and gourd across continents. Each entry is paired with period drawings, from German woodcuts of the 1600s to detailed depictions of African and Asian hookahs, offering insight into the craftsmanship and cultural rituals behind each device. The tone remains conversational, inviting listeners to appreciate how these everyday objects reflect trade, tradition, and the enduring allure of a shared smoke.