Bill Shalosky: Sandblasted Horn (449) Tobacco Pipe

Bill Shalosky's bent Dublin interpretations often tend to be rather Horn-like with their curling, sweeping line work. But here the American carver presents a muscular, firm-lined take on the Horn shape, marking just the second time we've seen Bill render the classic shape. While its profile suggests that it's a fairly traditional interpretation, there are plenty of subtly playful details that highlight Shalosky's keen eye for precise line work. The sharp ridgelines along the sides of the shank allow the sweeping profile of the shape to prominently stand out while a third ridgeline rides directly along the middle of the underside, eventually terminating at a slight point along the rim's fore right in between the more well-defined points along the sides of the rim. Such line work gradually guides the eye to the flaring bowl up front as well as the firm ridgeline that outlines the broad rim. Said rim displays more length than breadth with its three points along the front contrasted by the rounded, slightly protruding point along the backside. The transition is gently tucked away underneath the rim and allows for a comfortable, natural spot to rest the thumb. Just as remarkable as the lines and overall shaping is the sandblasted finish worn by this piece. Bill has read the grain on this briar block exceptionally well, bringing out a fascinating display of wavy, rippling grain along the flanks and has dressed the stummel in a warm earthy brown stain. The lines along the underside of the thick saddle stem synchronize perfectly with the stummel's ridgelines, showcasing Shalosky's careful attention to detail. And if all that weren't enough, this piece also sits incredibly well on flat surfaces, albeit on a slanted angle, but it sits nonetheless. Almost makes me wonder if it's a nod to Bill's Tipsy shapes but in a more literal manner.