Japanese Estates: Kenichiro Sakurai Smooth Dublin (19257) (2) (Unsmoked) Tobacco Pipe

Kenichiro Sakurai of Ken Pipes started carving pipes in 2005, drawing from a background in graphic design and art, and, by 2007, was carving pipes full-time. Though he was given guidance by J.T. Cooke, much of Sakurai's pipe making has been guided by his autodidactic learning, an impressive feat given his diverse and sophisticated portfolio. This Dublin is a lovely piece from the artisan, with a form that's immediately evocative of its namesake, but which alters the form surrounding its archetype to great effect. The bowl here is possessed of the Dublin's characteristic flare, though it's sat atop a pronounced, spur-like heel and juts out at a forward angle while rising toward its domed rim. Said rim is kissed with plateau on the left flank, adding a touch of organicism and drawing the eye toward the fore. A wide transition here gives way to a long, flaring, ovoid shank that expands out to a domed, lenticular face met with a sleek saddle stem of black acrylic: its base marked with a circular expansion ring. The flanks of the shank are lined with a pair of ridges, creating firm elements which contrast the smooth, curvaceous parts of this pipe excellently. Dressed in a light, contrast-rich stain, the stummel here showcases dense flame grain across the bowl, while the rim displays a smattering of birdseye.