Bill Shalosky: Sandblasted Sparrow (493) Tobacco Pipe

Upon examination of Bill Shalosky's pipes, you may notice a recurring design element of sweeping undercurve with natural and gradual evolution from one plane to the next. This Sparrow is a good example, with the forward bowl maintaining the underside's curvature in a natural parabola until reaching near the rim, where the flanks contract above the waistline before expanding at the rim. That element provides a natural indentation for wrapping one's fingers around the bowl and offers an intuitive grasp.

The transition is gentle, especially along the top where the angle of the bowl reduces the degree of angle. The shank is wide and oval, providing an aerial impression of sturdy muscularity to match that provided in profile. The serpentine S-curve of the piece is understated, with the saddle mouthpiece turning downward just enough to guarantee great balance and hours of visual and smoking admiration.