Alexander Tupitsyn: Partially Sandblasted Bent Dublin Tobacco Pipe

Although the heel itself isn't quite as pronounced as we'd typically expect, the strong taper of the bowl and the firm lines of the oval shank here in this bent Dublin do showcase many of Alexander's signature shaping cues, evoking that iconic, Ilsted-esque sense of forward momentum and dynamism in profile. Those firm, defined lines might have a slimming effect on the pipe's silhouette, but in the cross-section this piece is actually quite broad — with both plenty of chamber and a good bit of insulating briar in its supporting walls to match. Of course, Alexander's used that breadth to his advantage, leaving the rim polished smooth and vividly stained to showcase a vast display of whirling birdseye — with tightly knit, rippling growth rings dancing around the rest of the stummel. A great example of Tupitsyn's signature aesthetic, and just a stunning pipe overall.

- Andrew Wike