PARIS.- Starting in September, Le Louvre des Antiquaires will offer an exhibition devoted to the rites and practices of opium smoking in China in the 19th century: «Opium Memories». In the recreated décor of an opium smoking den, Dominique and Eric Delalande have brought unique pieces for the first time coming from the most beautiful international collections. From 1 September to 27 November 2011, «Opium Memories» looks back at the history and rituals of this poppy-derived drug. The exhibition will show a set of rare objects used to extract, prepare, store, and consume opium. Sculpted screens, embroidered suits of high-level dignitaries, pipes covered with lacquer or adorned with tortoiseshell, seal skin, or silver, retainers made of sculpted ivory, wrought metal plates, and cylindrical cloisonné boxes bring back memories of the hidden world of opium dens… from centuries past. Originally from Asia Minor, the poppy has been grown and consumed in China since the 7th century. Its