American Estates: J. Alan Partially Sandblasted Arrow (1959) 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 Arrow is a particularly excellent piece from Gracik, displaying influence from the Danish and Japanese pipe making traditions.

A variation of the Blowfish, this Arrow shape is distinctive and evocative, owing to the intricacy of its design. It features a bowl that stretches out toward the fore, with curved walls that come together in a thin ridge at the front end. A second, wider ridge curls backward from the rim, lending an organic, fluid character to the design, while still providing plenty of structure. Out back, an asymmetrical paneled shank flares out at the junction to a sleek vulcanite saddle stem, creating a profile that surges forward and lives up to its name. Dressed in a partial sandblast, the fore of the bowl boasts impeccably textured growth rings, while the chestnut-stained rear features perfectly oriented birdseye and cross grain.