Misc. Estates: Martin Cermak Sandblasted Paneled Billiard with Silver (2SB) (8823) Tobacco Pipe

Based out of the Czech Republic, Martin Cermak was initially introduced to pipe smoking by a friend but wasn't drawn to the hobby right away. It wasn't until he discovered the charm of vintage pieces he purchased that he developed a connection to pipes, taking time to restore and study them before selling them as estates. Cermak's natural curiosity eventually led him to create pipes of his own, learning how a pipe functions and how he could push the limits in terms of shaping and modifications. This Paneled Billiard is one of the more timeless examples of Cermak's work, and it's a delightfully stout pipe that's yet compact enough to take on the go: coming in at less than five inches long. The transition is wide, and it gives way to a short, square-shaped shank that tapers to meet the stem at a silver-wrapped junction, with this stem displaying a vibrant pattern of black and purple brindled vulcanite. Up front, the bowl stands on a rounded heel, with a flat underside allowing this piece to sit stably. The walls are thick and rise to a subtly domed rim, with a quartet of firm panels framing their climb, complete with slightly softer shaping at all the corners to keep the bowl comfortable in hand. Dressed in a crisp, inky sandblast, the stummel showcases handsome grain and ample texture, the dark tones of the finish nicely contrasted by the silver accent and colorful stem.