Italian Estates: Moretti Smooth Rhodesian (𝛿𝛿𝛿) (4) (2016) Tobacco Pipe

Quite the interesting take on the Rhodesian from Moretti, this pipe presents with a thoroughly neoclassical approach to shaping, poising the strikingly robust bowl at the fore of an extremely sleek shank and stem. The shank itself is quite trim, transitioning on the bowl quite low and providing it and the stem a svelte, aerodynamic look that further emphasizes the bowl. Said bowl seems to erupt directly from the shank and stem in a silhouette that reminds me immediately of a rose or similar flower, its forward cant poising the rim as if it were a broad expanse of petals daintily presenting itself to be appreciated. The walls here flare out from the sweeping heel and reach a mid-set waistline marked by a pair of crisp beadlines, tapering to meet a flattened rim, its full breadth more than two inches, thoroughly insulating the chamber. A dusky, smoky stain dresses the stummel, revealing handsome grain throughout and working well with the black stem to offer an understated, mysterious aesthetic.