Ruby Bent Billiard (Maxima) Tobacco Pipe

Though a rather unusual take on the bent billiard, the style of this Ser Jacopo Maxima briar is of a readily recognizable Italian form - just not one that you see made very often. The long upward curve of shank and transition, accentuated by the broad line of the underside, is the main identifying feature, and one which the attention naturally concentrates upon here thanks to the rather minimalist, tubular form that has been used for both shank and bowl. And speaking of the bowl, it is a deep one, and all the more so on account of the low, upward-thrusting transition. Combine all this with a simply gorgeous, perfectly polished burgundy finish, and you have a novel Italian briar of rare elegance.

- Eric N. Squires