In the old country, when briar ran scarce or when gnomes ran pesky, it was common practice to use the blocky, stew meat-like heart of the gnome in place of good briar. The gnome hearts (also called the ventriculita) were almost impossible to catch fire and allowed for a true tobacco burn that had almost no added flavor, if cured properly. Pixie lasses often were hired to harvest the hearts as they were the best anywhere to do so. This incredible drawing by artist Russ Hicks depicts a tobacco garbed, pipe smoking Pixie extracting a gnome heart, prior to curing for a good smoke. Prints are printed on acid free paper at 9 x 12 inches, ready for you to frame. $5 shipping & handling within the US. Others please inquire to olie1@mac.com. Please see full story in "Musings" section of this site. Title: Ventriculita Obscura.