Danish Estates: Barling International Smooth Bent Brandy (903) (T.V.F.) Tobacco Pipe

This "903" from Barling is a striking rendition of the bent Brandy shape. The bowl boasts a broad, plump heel that tapers upward to a sloped rim, while the shank kicks high, away from the low-set, cheeked transition, and marries a demurely curved stem, out back. The shank-and-stem arrangement encourages a comfortable smoking posture from which to enjoy the bowl's respectably deep chamber. The soft contours of the bowl nicely accommodate wrapping fingers, and the transition leaves plenty of space to drape a thumb. A glossy, ruby-hued smooth finish dresses the stummel and highlights an impressive mixture of birdseye and cross grain about the bowl.