Radice Clear Canadian (OP) (E) (2017) (Unsmoked) Tobacco Pipe

An unusual sort of Canadian, this Radice presents the usual identifying features of the shape — a tall bowl, a firm heel, a smoothly-rounded form up front, and even a lengthy shank. The shank, however, is where things become a touch unusual, swapping the broad, oval design so common to the shape for a squared-off design that offers a more firm, structural feel in hand. The shaping is carried through to the mouthpiece as well, terminating only in the rounded form of the button. While at first it may seem unconventional, this design serves a purpose: highlighting the briar's grain, its panels bracketing a sea of birdseye on the flanks, while a wide stretch of cross-grain adorns both top and bottom of the shank, all dressed in a warm, honey contrast stain.