American Estates: Mark Tinsky Natural Coral Author (6) (2020) Tobacco Pipe

A full-bodied Author by American carver Mark Tinsky, this piece stays true to the chubbiness for which the shape is known, though exaggerating it quite palpably. The bowl is quite large and very plump, fitting into the hand nicely and resting on a lifted heel that ensure its curves are thrust into the spotlight. The transition is fairly wide, with more than enough room to drape a thumb, and leads into a thick, trim shank that angles upward to meet an arced saddle stem. The angles of these two components are a bit sharper than is usually seen in Authors, though it contributes to a comfortable smoking posture and gives it a nice, unique stature, though overall is unquestionably muscular. Tinsky's craggy Coral rustication dresses the briar here, and he has chosen to leave it natural, bereft of stain and ready to patinate as it is smoked, offering a unique coloration.