American Estates: Nate King Smooth Tomato (384) (2017) Tobacco Pipe

Quite the petite rendition of the Tomato is presented here from American artisan Nate King, so much so that I wouldn't be surprised if this were designated a Cherry Tomato, pairing a languidly sinuous stretch of shank and stem with a pert, bulb-like bowl. The shank curves upward and rises out from a gently cheeked transition, meeting a fluidly arced stem to complete a svelte, continuous taper that ends at the button. This combination does well to balance the visual weight of the bowl, with the thickness present at the transitional area supporting the comparatively rotund bowl, a sleek undercurve and sweeping heel further emphasizing the presence at the fore. Said bowl is rather curious, with its plump walls flaring out to a more high-set waistline that is expected from a Tomato, reminiscent of an Apple or an Author in spirit. The latter is especially true given the easy flow of shank and stem and muscular transition, making this a charming portmanteau of the three shapes, all in a pocket-friendly package. A vibrant Auburn contrast stain dresses the stummel here, revealing birdseye on either flank of the bowl in dense pinpricks, the cumberland stem providing a dash of contrasting color that does well to keep the eye fixated on this piece.