American Estates: J. Alan Smooth Dublin with Mastodon (454) (2010) (Unsmoked) Tobacco Pipe

Crafted by Jeff Gracik in San Diego, California, J. Alan pipes are among the most highly regarded artisan pipes in the United States and the world at large. His shaping style highlights the supple curves of the Danish school while staying true to the evocative and sometimes sculptural designs of the American revival. This Dublin from 2010 is a particularly excellent piece from Gracik, displaying influence from the Danish and Japanese pipe making traditions.

This long and lithe piece features an organically shaped bowl with a broad, domed rim and thick walls that seems to bloom from the extended oval shank while resting on a softened heel with a dynamic forward cant. The supple bowl displays a single ridgeline on the right flank that runs the length of the design, adding a subtle structural touch, as well as tactile interest. Out back, the shank joins a hand-cut vulcanite saddle stem adorned with a slim band of mastodon ivory, creating an elegant contrast with the dark stem and rich chestnut stain of the stummel, which highlights excellent birdseye and cross grain interspersed around the bowl.