Misc. Estates: Dirk Claessen Sandblasted Volcano Tobacco Pipe

Dirk Claessen was born in Belgium, but moved to Spain in 2010, making pipes ever since, and doing so with the admirable goal of creating high-quality smoking instruments for a reasonable price. This Volcano is a unique interpretation of the modern classic profile, with a base that's centered beneath the bowl, rather than one which wraps around to encompass the underside of the shank as well. The transition is wide, with plenty of room to drape a digit as the shank lifts and tapers toward a similarly tapering arc of jet-black vulcanite that's curved for comfortable smoking. Not only does this offer an elegant posture, but it balances the presence of the bowl in profile and centers the visual weight near the transition. Up front, the bowl's base boasts a plump, rounded build that offers a wealth of comfort in hand, reaching its widest point at a low-set waist marked with a crisp ridgeline. From here, the walls of the bowl take on a slight forward lean and sleek taper to the rim, completing the profile with a dynamic and aerodynamic look. Dressed in a crisp sandblast and deep, earthy stain, the stummel here showcases a handsome display of grain and a timeless palette.