Takeo Arita Partially Rusticated Bent Shield with Silver (X) (168) (2006) Tobacco Pipe

One of the most highly esteemed pipe carvers in Japan, if not the world, Takeo Arita's work is difficult to find, making each pipe that appears on our site something special. Takeo is the son of carver Shizuo Arita, and began learning the craft from his father before studying architecture, a background which lends his work an impeccable command of line and form. His style is replete with inventive, organic shaping, and immaculate finishing work.

This bent Shield is a stunning piece from Arita, and a uniquely curvaceous rendition of the form. The bowl is defined by the semi-paneled construction that characterizes the shape, rendered here in a particularly graceful execution. The fore of the bowl is quite curvaceous, filling the hand comfortably. Out back, the transition offers an ergonomic grip, while lending the shank a touch of emphasis as it gives way to an elegant half-saddle stem of black vulcanite. Dressed in an excellent partial rustication a deep mahogany stain, the stummel offers a wealth of crisp texture, punctuated by the smooth center's tight cross grain.

— Jenna Wasserman